Istanbul Agop 20" Signature China

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.

Designed after Agop's death to the specifications of a notebook he kept for years, the Signature series is a distillation of decades in cymbal-making down to Agop's favorite qualities. The cymbals feature raw lathing and a green logo stamping because it was the founder's favorite color.

Built with a thin, flanged edge to accentuate the raw lathing and dark character, the Signature China imparts a full, umbrous effect.

Years of production: 2008-present

Tonal profile: dark, trashy, atmospheric

Notable features: green logo stamping

Associated artists: Scott McPherson (M. Ward), Bob Meyer, Christopher Bear (Grizzly Bear)