The Zildjian A New Beat hi-hat is the most recorded hi-hat in history. Introduced in the late 1950s and refined through the 1960s and 70s, the New Beat philosophy is straightforward and effective: a medium-weight top cymbal paired with a significantly heavier bottom for a tight, defined chick, fast response, and a controlled wash that stays musical across dynamic levels. The formula worked so well that Zildjian still makes the New Beat today, and the vintage hollow logo examples from the late 1970s remain among the most sought-after hi-hats on the used market — cast from Zildjian's proprietary B20-style alloy in Norwell, Massachusetts, with the kind of hand workmanship that production pressures have since made difficult to maintain.
The hollow logo ink stamp dates these cymbals to the 1978-1981 production window, a period well documented among vintage Zildjian collectors. Both cymbals carry the "Bottom New Beat Hi Hat" ink stamp — an unusual and worth-noting detail. Paired bottom cymbals like this do turn up occasionally, typically when players or shops mix and match from separate pairs. At 1400 and 1600 grams the weight difference between the two is meaningful and will produce a firm, authoritative chick with plenty of mass behind it. Buyers should factor this into their expectations — this is a heavier, more assertive pairing than a standard New Beat configuration and will suit players who want presence and projection in louder settings.
Condition is very good. Both cymbals show typical tarnish and stick marks from years of normal use — the kind of honest patina that comes with decades of playing and that many drummers actively prefer on vintage bronze. No keyholing, no edge chips, no dents, no cracks. Please refer to the photos for a thorough look at both cymbals.
- Make: Avedis Zildjian
- Model: New Beat Hi-Hat Pair, Hollow Logo
- Size: 15"
- Era: circa 1978-1981 (hollow logo ink stamp, second generation)
- Country of origin: USA (Norwell, MA)
- Alloy: cast B20-style bronze
- Cymbal 1 weight: 1400g, stamped Bottom New Beat Hi Hat
- Cymbal 2 weight: 1600g, stamped Bottom New Beat Hi Hat
- Note: both cymbals are stamped as bottom cymbals
- Condition: very good — typical vintage tarnish and stick marks, no keyholing, chips, dents, or cracks
- Modifications: none
- Includes: pair only, no hardware
Ships carefully packed and insured for full value.
International buyers are welcome — please contact us for a shipping quote before purchasing.
About Mill River Music
Mill River Music is an independent, human-powered music shop located in downtown Northampton, MA, run by a team of players, enthusiasts, and certified repair technicians. Every piece of used gear we sell is personally inspected, tested, and set up before it ships — we don't list it until we'd be happy to play it ourselves.
As Martin and Taylor certified techs, we hold our guitar work to a high standard, and we're committed to full transparency about the condition of everything we sell. No surprises.
When you buy from Mill River, you're supporting an independent local business that genuinely cares — about gear, about players, and about doing things right. We're here every step of the way. Reach out anytime.