The Worst Cymbals Ever

I've played/owned primarily Zildjian for 10+ years...started with Scimitar series (awful, just awful - but entry level) and eventually purchased pro lines (A, A Custom, Z Custom). Over time, I've stuck with the A series; I just think they sound good in all music I play. They also have some type of "glittery" sound on the high end that I don't hear in any other brands, as well as a nice wide tonal spectrum.

I have played Sabian, but I couldn't get over a perceived narrow tonal spectrum - very mid-rangy and limited character (played 16" AA medium crash, 16", 17", 18" AAX Stage Crashes, 20" AAX Stage Ride, 18" HH China) with exception to a shimmering 18" AA Sound Control Crash and glassy 8" AA Splash that I've never heard again after I cracked them. Shame on me - sorry Rory. I admit, I'm a very hard hitter.

Then I bought Paiste 2002 series (14" Medium Hats, 16" Medium Crash, 20" Medium Ride). The hats were a joke, especially after noticing dents on the edge of top hat within a month of purchasing them, plus they were extremely soft with very little tonal character (though a relatively decent 'chick' sound in the closed position). The crash had very little volume when it was needed (I understand it was only a 16") and had limited tonal character as well.

HOWEVER, I was impressed with the ride. That thing could growl, piss, and moan like it was nobody's business AND be musical at the same time. I sold it, though. I gave the crash to someone who needed it, and still retain the hats as the "if I have to" back up hats. I've also played Paiste Alphas - awful. Though, I think Alphas are mid-level, right? Not quite pro, but not entry. Hats, Crash, Ride, China - all bad.

Needless to say, I went back to Zildjian. Paiste would be my "Worst Cymbal Ever" experience.
Maybe I'll melt a bunch of pennies and make my own cymbal. That'll probably be the Worst Cymbal EVER.