December 2023 - Ken Hada

Ken Hada Drums my Hi Hats Compared Greetings fellow drum enthusiasts! Today, I am thrilled to embark on a sonic journey through my cherished collection of hi-hats. The inspiration for this exploration came from an old friend (Danny Gonzales) who, this morning, reached out with a simple request—to hear the mesmerizing sound of my Paiste 602 14-inch hi hats. This simple question ignited a spark of curiosity within me, prompting a closer examination of my entire hi-hat collection. In response, I’ve decided to create comparison videos featuring four of my favorite hi hats, each possessing its unique character and sonic identity.

Ken Hada Drums my Hi Hats Compared

Paiste 602 14 inch Hi Hat compared

Zildjian K/Z 14 inch Hi Hat compared

Zildjian New Beat 14 inch Hi Hat compared

Paiste Dark Energy 14 inch Hi Hat compared

The Lineup:

In this sonic showcase, I’ll be shedding light on four exceptional hi hats that have found a special place in my heart. In fact, the star of the show, as per my friend’s inquiry, is the iconic Paiste 602 14-inch hi hat. Alongside it, we’ll delve into the distinct qualities of three other remarkable cymbals, creating a harmonious quartet of sound exploration. In the end, we will listen to 2 Zildjian and 2 Paiste hi hats.

The Comparison Videos:

The centerpiece of this venture is comparison videos, a musical feast for the ears where each hi hat takes center stage.

Invitation to Explore:

As you embark on this auditory journey with me, I invite you to not only listen but actively participate. Share your thoughts, ask questions, and perhaps discover a new favorite among the hi hats featured. Drumming is not just a physical act but a sensory experience, and I hope this comparison provides you with a deeper appreciation for the diversity that exists within the realm of hi-hats. So, without further ado, let the comparison begin!

Put a photograph on your skateboard. Yes, add a personal touch to your skateboard deck. This process combines elements of photography and hands-on craftsmanship, making it a popular choice among skateboard enthusiasts.

To begin, the cyanotype printing method, an alternative photographic process that results in a cyan-blue print, is employed. This process typically involves coating a surface, in this case, watercolor paper, with a light-sensitive solution containing iron compounds. A photographic negative or image is then placed on the coated surface, and the assembly is exposed to UV light. The sunlight or a UV lamp reacts with the solution, creating a chemical reaction that produces the characteristic cyan-blue color. This method not only imparts a visually striking aesthetic to the skateboard but also makes use of a historical photographic technique.

Mixing Cyanotype

Coating Cyanotype

Sun Print Exposure

Following the cyanotype printing, the image transfer process comes into play. This involves carefully transferring the developed photograph onto the skateboard deck. The printed image is typically moistened and then pressed onto the deck, ensuring proper adhesion. This step requires precision to avoid distortions or imperfections in the transferred image.

Skateboarders often seek this customization to showcase their individuality and passion for both photography and skating. The combination of cyanotype printing and image transfer allows for the integration of personal photographs, turning the skateboard into a unique piece of art that reflects the skater’s identity.

As you’ve encountered interest from various skateboarders, it’s evident that this creative process resonates within the skating community. It not only transforms a skateboard into a personalized work of art but also serves as a conversation starter, fostering a sense of camaraderie among skateboard enthusiasts who share a common interest in both the visual arts and the exhilarating sport of skateboarding.