Paiste 2002 Series Cymbals - The Sound of Rock Drumming
The Paiste 2002 is one of the most iconic cymbal series ever made. Introduced in 1971, the 2002 defined the sound of rock drumming for generations - bright, powerful, cutting, and unmistakably Paiste. John Bonham of Led Zeppelin used Paiste 2002 cymbals on some of the greatest rock recordings ever made, and the series has been trusted by professional drummers across rock, pop, and metal ever since.
The 2002 range is one of the most comprehensive in the Paiste lineup, offering multiple crash voices, ride options, hi-hats in three sizes, China cymbals, splashes, and the distinctive Black Label Big Beat sub-series - giving drummers everything they need to build a complete, professional 2002 setup.
Shop by Sub-Series
Standard Crash - The classic 2002 crash voice, available in 14" to 22" - bright, powerful, and cutting
Thin Crash - Faster response and lighter feel in 16" to 19" for a more sensitive crash sound
Medium Crash - A fuller, more balanced crash tone in 16", 18", and 20"
Power Crash - Maximum volume and projection in 16" to 22" for the loudest playing environments
Black Label Big Beat - A premium sub-series with a warmer, fuller character - including hi-hats in 15" and 16", and multi-purpose cymbals from 18" to 24"
Shop by Cymbal Type
Hi-Hats - Sound Edge hi-hats in 13", 14", and 15", plus 14" Medium and 14" Heavy options
Ride Cymbals - Standard rides in 20", 22", and 24", plus Power and Heavy Ride options for maximum projection
2002 Black Big Beat represent a modernized, yet timeless interpretation of the legendary 2002 sound. Visually, the cymbals feature a distinctly new hammering pattern for the 2002 family. A slightly darkened, semi-matted finish and simplified black logos distinguishes the Big Beats from the original 2002 cymbals. With the 2002 Black Big Beat models, Paiste take the 2002 sound into a new realm, while preserving the legendary 2002 heritage.
Big Beat cymbals are rooted in the world of “2002 Bronze”, with its celebrated brilliance, clarity, precision and strength. Big Beat models add particular warmth, depth and complexity to the mix and are perfect for a broad, voluminous sound without being overly aggressive.
The Paiste 2002 Black Big Beat set represents a modernized, yet timeless interpretation of the celebrated 2002 sound.
Visually, the cymbals feature a distinctly new hammering pattern for the 2002 family, a slightly darkened, semi-matted finish and simplified black logos to distinguish the Big Beat set.
In terms of sound, the cymbals are rooted in the world of 2002 Alloy, with its celebrated brilliance, clarity, precision and strength. Big Beat models add particular warmth, depth and complexity to the mix. They are perfect for broad, voluminous sound without being overly aggressive.
The individual cymbals are designed to be multifunctional and work well across the range as both crashes and rides. Despite their sizes, the cymbals feature excellent manageability and well controllable decay. Warm luscious crashes, an airy, defined ping over a wide multi-layered wash, and broad, musical bells are the hallmarks of the Big Beat singles. The Hi-Hat pairs feature a broad stick over a fat, wet open sound and a rich pronounced chick.
With the 2002 Black Big Beat models, Paiste takes the 2002 sound into a new realm, while preserving the legendary 2002 heritage. Live or studio, these cymbals are decidedly multi-musical, well suited for a wide range of applications.
2002s are entirely made by hand in Switzerland using traditional methods that have remained unchanged in over half a century.
The Paiste 2002 Black Big Beat set represents a modernized, yet timeless interpretation of the celebrated 2002 sound.
Visually, the cymbals feature a distinctly new hammering pattern for the 2002 family, a slightly darkened, semi-matted finish and simplified black logos to distinguish the Big Beat set.
In terms of sound, the cymbals are rooted in the world of 2002 Alloy, with its celebrated brilliance, clarity, precision and strength. Big Beat models add particular warmth, depth and complexity to the mix. They are perfect for broad, voluminous sound without being overly aggressive.
The individual cymbals are designed to be multifunctional and work well across the range as both crashes and rides. Despite their sizes, the cymbals feature excellent manageability and well controllable decay. Warm luscious crashes, an airy, defined ping over a wide multi-layered wash, and broad, musical bells are the hallmarks of the Big Beat singles. The Hi-Hat pairs feature a broad stick over a fat, wet open sound and a rich pronounced chick.
With the 2002 Black Big Beat models, Paiste takes the 2002 sound into a new realm, while preserving the legendary 2002 heritage. Live or studio, these cymbals are decidedly multi-musical, well suited for a wide range of applications.
2002s are entirely made by hand in Switzerland using traditional methods that have remained unchanged in over half a century.
Buy Paiste 2002 Cymbals from a Specialist UK Drum Store
Into Music Store stocks the full Paiste 2002 range online and in our physical store in Horncastle, Lincolnshire - from standard crashes and rides to the premium Black Label Big Beat sub-series. If you're searching for a specialist drum store near me with genuine knowledge of the 2002 range, our team can help you navigate the different crash voices and find the right cymbal for your setup. Visit us in person to hear the 2002 in action before you buy.
The Paiste 2002 sits alongside the Giant Beat as one of Paiste's most historically significant ranges. If you're looking for a darker, more vintage Paiste sound, the Giant Beat is the natural companion. For a more modern professional sound with greater tonal complexity, the Signature and Masters series are worth exploring. We offer next day delivery options across the UK on all Paiste 2002 cymbals. Browse the full range above or get in touch for advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Paiste 2002 is one of the most iconic cymbal series in rock drumming history, introduced in 1971. Known for its bright, powerful, and cutting tone, the 2002 has been used by professional drummers across rock, pop, and metal for over 50 years. The range includes multiple crash voices, ride cymbals, hi-hats, China cymbals, splashes, and the premium Black Label Big Beat sub-series.
Yes - John Bonham of Led Zeppelin famously used Paiste 2002 cymbals, and their bright, powerful sound is heard on some of the greatest rock recordings ever made. The 2002's association with Bonham is one of the reasons it remains one of the most sought-after professional cymbal series in the world.
The Paiste 2002 Thin Crash has a faster response and lighter feel - ideal for sensitive playing and quick accents. The Medium Crash offers a fuller, more balanced tone suited to a wide range of playing styles. The Power Crash delivers maximum volume and projection for the loudest playing environments. All three share the same bright, cutting 2002 character.
The Paiste 2002 Black Label Big Beat is a premium sub-series within the 2002 range, offering a warmer, fuller character than the standard 2002. It includes hi-hats in 15" and 16" and multi-purpose cymbals from 18" to 24" - making it a popular choice for drummers who want the 2002 heritage with a slightly different tonal voice.
Both the Paiste 2002 and Giant Beat are iconic vintage ranges with strong rock heritage. The 2002 is brighter, more cutting, and more powerful - the definitive rock cymbal sound. The Giant Beat has a warmer, fuller, and more vintage character. John Bonham used both, often combining them for different tonal colours in his setup.
Yes - next day delivery options are available across the UK on all Paiste 2002 cymbals. You can also visit our drum store in Horncastle, Lincolnshire to try them in person before you buy.
