Operating in its current incarnation since 2004 after creating a headquarters in the United States, Istanbul Agop is one of the cymbal industry's leaders in crafting traditional Turksih cymbals. The company was founded by and named after Agop Tomurcuk, who spent decades in Turkey's sole cymbal foundry learning the craft before creating his own company.

Introduced as an homage to the legendary jazz drummer and band leader, the Mel Lewis Signature series encapsulates the rich, warm character of Turkish cymbals from the early 20th century. The series was modeled directly after Lewis's personal cymbals, which were flown to Istanbul and used as reference for development after his death in 1990.

Years of production: 2001-present

Tonal profile: full, responsive, bright

Notable features: Mel Lewis's signature logo stamping