Paiste Cymbals

Driven by the love of music, Paiste produces state-of-the-art cymbals so drummers and percussionists can expand upon their creativity with no bounds. Pioneers in the industry, Paiste focuses on research and craftsmanship to produce cymbals that create a variety of sound dimensions.

A family company that has always kept up with changing times, Paiste was founded by Michail Toomas Paiste in Russia in 1901. After closing due to the Russian Revolution, Paiste and his son reopened in 1917 and made cymbals for concerts and marching bands. The son, Michail, eventually took over, remarkably keeping the business alive through wartime, even winning international acclaim for his development of Turkish cymbals. A manufacturing base was set up in Switzerland in 1957. The company expanded further when Paiste America was established in the USA in 1981.

For over seventy years Paiste has been an innovator introducing the use of Chinese style cymbals for a drum set in 1949, the bell-less flat ride cymbal in 1967, and the first color coated cymbals in 1984. In their Swiss production facility Paiste still employs traditional hand craftsmanship using their time-honored method for their professional series. They made a breakthrough in 2005 as they began using digital technology in their German production facility to transfer the essence of hand manufactured cymbals to those produced by modern hi-tech production techniques.

As Paiste has grown, drummers on the world stage have turned to them for their cymbal needs. Today numerous high profile artists play with Paiste cymbals: Frank Beard (ZZ Top); Stewart Copeland (The Police); Patrick Carney (The Black Keys); Patrick Keeler (The Raconteurs); Abe Laborial Jr (Paul McCartney); and more all use Paiste cymbals to drive the beat.

With many cymbals to choose from, Paiste provides drummers and percussionists lots of options when setting up their kits. There is something special about the sound you get from the Signature Full Crash. Known for its bright sound, it cuts through loud music and is great for everything from school bands to symphonies. If you're more of a rocker, the Full Ride sings at the touch of your stick and has the clear tone that is ideal when you need to break through the rest of the band. The 2002 Power Ride is referred to by some as the "King of Ping" for its musicality and superb bell and is best suited for big kits. When you're playing at a small venue or if you play a variety of music styles, the Alpha Sound Edge Hi-hat Pair is versatile and responsive, making it superb for everything from soundtracks to school bands.

From its early development of Turkish cymbals and gongs to using technology to improve sound, Paiste still continues to research and experiment. Whether coming up with a new alloy or a different shape, the company takes a creative approach to product development. Sparked by the complexities of music and the quest for expression, Paiste continues to evolve as they manufacture professional grade cymbals that are recognized internationally.