As you progress as an artist you'll learn that cymbal sounds are as unique as a fingerprints. Even the same 18" A custom will sound a tad different in their attack, sustain and tonal quality from another 18" A Custom. But even with that said their is a significant difference from the ZBT line to the A Custom or K/Z line. The quality and craftsmanship that goes into A/K/Z cymbals cannot be compared to these lower end "pressed" type cymbals. The metals, tonal groves, bells, ect... all go through a much different process to produce a higher quality cymbal.
They would work well on a practice kit or for the beginner that has a limited cash flow but should not be considered for a stage or recording session. If you do I'm afraid you and your audience will be greatly disappointed. I to started with extremely poor cymbals early in my drumming career but can say honestly that I saved more money and time by buying the best cymbals I could with the money I had. Slowly replacing every cymbal in my collection with high quality pieces. It took many years but some of the cymbals I play with are well over ten years old and getting better with age.
These guys that are saying the B8's are better, ok they may be, for a low end cymbal. But compare the B8's to the Hand Hammer series and you'll see how bad they sound also. An entry level cymbal is an entry level cymbal.
I don't mean to get on a soap box for my first post on these forums but if I can help someone with this it's worth it. Take some time, do your research and buy quality cymbals that can last you a life time. Also don't forget that many drummers will buy high end cymbals and then sell them later looking for a different sound. And there is nothing wrong with that. Their loss can be your gain. Many of my cymbals are used, especially my K's and I got them well below half price new. I personally think you would be better off searching for some used quality cymbals if your strapped for cash versus buying low end new cymbals that you will most likely end up junking in the coming years looking for that fat sound in your crash or the ping in your ride versus the sound of trash cans slamming into a tin roof.
So the moral of the story.....buy quality cymbals........If you have to start with these then so be it, just have a plan to replace them before you get serious.
Beginner=Ok
Novice to Pro= Bad (not to mention you'll be laughed at
)
JBJ