Meinl 14" PURE ALLOY CUSTOM MEDIUM THIN HIHAT
Estimated Shipping Widget will be displayed here!
Couldn't load pickup availability
Information
Information
Manufacturer Information
Meinl
https://www.ortegaguitars.com
info@ortegaguitars.com
------------------------
Safety manager:
SAICO SAS
Email:
Address:
Historical Context and Positioning Within the Range
The Pure Alloy Custom series continues the legacy of Meinl's Pure Alloy cymbals, addressing a common demand from drummers: retaining the brightness and "shimmer" of the line but with thinner weights and a softer feel. This "Custom" variant positions itself as a more nuanced and modern option, featuring a distinctive two-tone finish and a response tailored for contemporary contexts, from amplified live performances to demanding studio sessions.
Target Audience for This Hi-Hat
This 14-inch hi-hat is primarily aimed at intermediate to advanced drummers seeking a unique model capable of covering many situations without needing multiple pairs. It excels particularly in rock, pop, fusion, R&B, reggae, and studio work : precise enough for tight grooves, full enough to support choruses, and sensitive enough for left-hand nuances and ghost notes on the hi-hat.
Features and Innovations
The Pure Alloy Custom emphasizes a medium-thin construction to enhance responsiveness and dynamic range. The thinner top promotes easy opening and quick accents, while the medium-thin bottom provides the necessary stability for the "chick" sound and projection without stiffening the touch. Manufacturing focuses on hammered shaping and refined finishing: the goal is to deliver a hi-hat that is simultaneously defined, musical, and controllable, capable of remaining clear in the mix while retaining body.
Sound Characteristics
No wood or shells here: everything depends on the alloy, thickness, hammering, and lathe work. The Pure Alloy bronze (B12 family) naturally sits between the sharp brightness of simpler alloys and the very dark density of heavier bronzes. The result is a mid-dark signature with a present upper spectrum that is rounder and easier to place in recording.
When played closed, the hi-hat offers a clean attack and clear definition (ideal for stick tip eighth notes, funk or pop patterns, and fast tempos). When played semi-open, it develops a complex grain and a controlled "sizzle" sensation, with a short to medium sustain that avoids overwhelming the mix. The combination of finishes (smoked-bronze on top, brilliant underneath) also contributes to the overall balance: a sound that is simultaneously warm, full, and clear, without excessive harshness.
Technical specifications
| Type | hi-hat |
| Brand / Series | Meinl Pure Alloy Custom |
| Diameter | 14 inches |
| Alloy | Pure Alloy bronze (B12) |
| Weight | medium thin |
| Configuration | thin top, medium-thin bottom |
| Shaping | hammered, made in Germany |
| Lathe | pinpoint type |
| Top | smoked-bronze |
| Bottom | brilliant |
| Pitch | low-mid |
| Timbre | mid-dark |
| Volume | medium to low |
| Sustain | medium to short |
| Character | complex, full-bodied, musical, sensitive, smooth, warm |
| Applications | rock, pop, fusion, R&B, reggae, studio |
Questions frequently asked
What sound does the Meinl Pure Alloy Custom 14-inch hi-hat offer?
Its Pure Alloy B12 delivers a mid-dark timbre and a low-mid pitch. When closed, the attack remains clear; in a semi-open position, the tone becomes more complex with controlled sizzle.
Is this 14-inch hi-hat suited for rock and studio use?
This model is designed for rock, pop, fusion, R&B, reggae, and studio work. Its medium to low volume and medium to short sustain ensure good clarity in the mix.
What is the thickness of the top and bottom cymbals?
The top cymbal is thin, while the bottom cymbal has a medium-thin weight. This setup facilitates opening while maintaining a stable chick sound.
What finish does this Meinl hi-hat have?
The top cymbal features a smoked-bronze finish and the bottom a brilliant finish. Pinpoint lathe work and hammering contribute to its warm and defined character.
Is the Pure Alloy Custom 14 sensitive to playing dynamics?
Its thin top and medium-thin weight promote a responsive feel to quick accents. The hammered construction, made in Germany, supports left-hand nuances and ghost notes on the hi-hat. The sustain is rather short to medium.



