Meinl 14" Pure Alloy Quick Sand Hat - Benny Greb Signature

Historical Context and Positioning in the Range

The Quick Sand Hats 14 fit within Benny Greb's sought-after sound universe: an articulated, musical, and controlled hi-hat reminiscent of jazz-funk and fusion recordings from the 70s and 80s. This "old school" approach is achieved without sacrificing modern precision, thanks to a design aimed at providing consistent response and a wide dynamic range. Within the Meinl Pure Alloy family, this model stands out with its sanded finish and "dry and vintage" oriented design, while maintaining the series' signature: clear stick definition and a fast feel under the hands.

Who This Drum/Instrument Is For

These 14-inch hi-hat cymbals are intended for intermediate to expert drummers seeking an expressive, precise, and easy-to-control hi-hat, especially at moderate volumes. They excel in jazz, funk, fusion, pop, and studio settings, where a clean "chick," readable closing, and controlled opening are desired. If you appreciate dry textures, detailed right-hand grooves, and nuanced left-foot work, this set is designed to effortlessly follow you from soft ghost notes to sharper accents.

Features and Innovations

The key concept of the Quick Sand Hats lies in the combination of two complementary bronzes: the B12 for the top cymbal provides a clear attack and transparent stick definition, while the B20 bottom cymbal adds body, warmth, and a rounder feel on closing. The sanded finish contributes to this dry, pre-aged feel, with natural sustain control and very stable response in low dynamics, particularly appreciated in recording.

Another decisive element is the sound notch on the bottom cymbal: by preventing air from being trapped between the two cymbals, it facilitates closing, clarifies the "chick," and makes the opening more controllable. This detail, inspired by modifications observed on vintage cymbals used in the 70s and 80s, also improves footwork consistency during fast patterns.

Sound

With their B12 plus B20 combination and sanded surface, these Quick Sand Hats offer a medium-dark sound that is both clear and smooth. The top cymbal emphasizes precise definition: stick hits stand out clearly, helping to maintain a readable groove even in a busy mix. Meanwhile, the B20 bottom cymbal provides a warmer foundation that rounds out the timbre and gives a sense of depth, without turning the hi-hat into an overwhelming "wash."

The result: a clear and controlled chick, an agile opening, and a medium to short sustain, very useful for funk, modern pop, and studio work. The upper-mid pitch maintains sufficient presence at low volume, and the vintage and dry character promotes clean articulation in double strokes, right-hand accents, and left-foot variations.

Technical specifications