Description
Istanbul Agop XIST Raw Bell
The Istanbul Agop XIST Raw Bell is a remarkable SFX cymbal, handcrafted with precision and expertise by Istanbul Agop. Being a renowned name in the world of cymbal manufacturing, Istanbul’s XIST Raw Bell is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and sound quality. Made from B20 bronze, this SFX cymbal is crafted to deliver a unique blend of bright and dark tones, making it versatile enough to fit a wide range of musical styles and genres.
One of the standout features of the XIST Raw Bell is (unsurprisingly) its distinctive raw finish. This finish not only gives the cymbal a unique, edgy appearance but also plays a crucial role in shaping its sound. The raw finish ensures that the cymbal’s vibrations are not dampened by a traditional lathing process, allowing it to produce a vibrant, full-bodied sound with an emphasis on raw character and complexity.
So what do they sound like?
7″ Raw Bell
Hurts the old ears that one…but you young-uns will be ok until it hurts enough to need ear plugs!
8″ Raw Bell
A little lower pitched, but still cutting.
9″ Raw Bell (with sizzlin’ rivets)
This one has four rivets attached, so it has a little bit of extra ‘sizzle’ in its aftertouch (is that what you call it?)
So you’ve heard the goods, now let’s delve into the key attributes of what makes the Istanbul Agop XIST Raw Bell a great buy…
- Unparalleled Craftsmanship: Istanbul Agop is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Each XIST Raw Bell cymbal is hand-hammered by skilled artisans in Istanbul, Turkey, ensuring that no two cymbals are exactly alike. This individual attention to detail guarantees that you are getting a unique piece of musical artistry.
- Raw Finish: The raw finish of the XIST Raw Bell is not only visually striking but also contributes to its extraordinary sound. The absence of traditional lathing allows the cymbal to produce a sound that is both complex and warm, making it perfect for a wide range of musical applications.
- Versatility: The XIST Raw Bell is highly versatile and can be used across various musical genres. Its bright and dark tonal qualities make it suitable for rock, pop, jazz, funk, and more. Whether you’re playing in a heavy rock band or a jazz ensemble, this cymbal will adapt to your playing style with ease.
- Responsive Bell: As the name suggests, the XIST Raw Bell is designed with a prominent bell that offers exceptional clarity and projection. It cuts through the mix effortlessly, making it a standout choice for drummers who need their accents to be heard.
Example of Use
Imagine you’re a drummer in a rock band, and it’s time to add that signature bell-pattern to your performance. You decide to incorporate the Istanbul Agop XIST Raw Bell into your drum setup. As you weave your strokes, the raw, unrefined quality of the bell produces a sharp, cutting sound that pierces through the heavy guitar riffs and bass lines – and straight into the overheads! It complements your drumming style with its bright, focused tones, giving each hit a punchy and assertive presence. The XIST Raw Bell becomes the sonic backbone of your driving ride playing, providing an edge to your performance that elevates the section of a song. Its versatility also shines through when you switch to a more mellow, jazzy groove, as the cymbal seamlessly adapts to the subtler nuances of your playing. Without a doubt, a must-have addition to the modern drummer’s SFX setup and probably best suited to those prog-metal type scenarios – just don’t get it out for that Joni Mitchell tribute!
