Paiste 18" Rude Basher

The Basher loves being bashed, but isn't just for bashing

This is a wonderfully balanced cymbal.

I bought the Basher primarily for use in very heavy, loud music, and it really shines in that context. Its medium-long sustain and medium brightness & intensity mean that it works well both in single notes and sustained bashing. It produces proper volume with relative ease; even when playing with lighter 5A sticks it's still quite responsive, despite the heavy weight. Heavier 5A's and 5B's bring out its inner beast!

I didn't expect it to have so much distinct character during softer playing as well though. Across all dynamics it produces a wide range of full-bodied sounds.

Compared to the 18" Rude Crash/Ride - which I have also used for several years - I'd say it's definitely more responsive, lively, and versatile. The Crash/Ride does have a nicer, slightly darker tone in my opinion, but that's a small compromise for this cymbal's range.

My broadest description would be that in most aspects, on a scale of "Average medium weight 16-inch crash" to "Heavy 18-inch crash/ride", it's about 80% towards the latter.

Made to be bashed, but not one-dimensional at all. Great cymbal!