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 to be striking in both appearance and sound, the Sultan series incorporates concentric lathed and un-lathed rings through the bow with a raw bell for emphasized projection and attack.
The crash is marked by a buttery stick response with a warm decay and full-bodied presence.
Years of production: ca. 2000-present
Tonal profile: bright, full, washy
Notable features: lathed and un-lathed bow, raw hammered bell
Associated artists: Brian Collier, Joe Russo, Frank Briggs