Meinl 12" HCS Trash Stacks

I have start using this stack as part of my set up for the past month. They sit to my right, just above my 13" and 16" floor toms, almost opposite to my hi-hats. They can be easily mounted onto most single boom arms with a clamp. They can offer a new dimension to your playing and can be integrated into almost any groove, fill or genre of music you like. I find they work best played slightly open or looser, extending the decay a little further. The bottom cymbal can also be used as mini-china or o-zone and sounds equally amazing with a little more bite and sizzle. As a smaller stack, I was surprised how much they can cut through with a high-end attack and just how well they sit with my other cymbal choices. If you are looking to expand your effects sounds with cymbals at a reasonably price, these may be for you! The quality is to a high standard for what they actually cost, definitely good value for your money.

I've found the Meinl 12 HCS Trash Stacks to be a valuable addition to my drum set, offering a unique sound that can enhance my playing. The stacks can be mounted easily and integrated into various genres of music. I appreciate the versatility of being able to place them in different ways to achieve distinct sounds. While the sound may not be loud enough to cut through heavy guitar walls in its default configuration, I've found that placing the bottom 'china' on top can add a bit more pierce. The build quality is very good, and I enjoy the additional texture they bring to my hi-hat. Overall, I'm pleased with the sound and quality, though I wish it were a bit richer. I've experimented with tightening the nut to achieve a 'wet' texture, which I find appealing. These stacks have opened up my phrasing and offer an interesting 'clap' effect when played tight.

This stack is incredibly diverse, in my opinion. Depending on how tight you set it, the sound can range from a trashy china type sound to a trashy hihat sound. If you find the sweet spot in the middle, you can even get a sound resembling a clap. Even if that isn't appealing to you, you can use these cymbals separately. The China by itself sounds good in my opinion. Cuts through the mix nicely, and it can take a beating. The splash is alright by itself too, but it's a bit too trashy for my taste. All in all, I'm very happy with this purchase. I use it for all styles of music: rock, metal, edm, funk, you name it

Not loud enough to cut through a heavy/loud wall of guitars, especially in its "default" configuration. Slightly more piercing when the bottom "china" is placed on top. Without anything to separate the cymbals a bit, the sound is always very short.

There are a few different sounds you can get out of this by placing it in different ways and of course you can try stacking with other splashes, etc.

Not bad, but for my purpose way too quiet and quick. Brass durability might be an issue, but then again price is the lowest for a ready-made stack at Thomann at the moment.