What drove me to get these wasn't just to go all Paiste, though I admit that was part of the plan. What I wanted was some medium and higher pitched chinas that weren't as cheap and nasty as Wuhans. I have a 22" wuhan china that works well for low pitch.
18"


14"


The paiste Alphas I got pretty cheaply. What I like about this underrated line is that they sound pro for 1/2 the price of pro. They cost roughly the same as Zildjian ZHT.

These chinas are what I'd call medium bright. They aren't as thin as Wuhan, but they are much better quality and much cleaner sounding. The only bummer is that they don't come in larger sizes. A 22" Alpha china would be perfect for me.

Anyway, I have a 14" which is higher pitched, but it's not ear-splitting. It's like it has the intensity set to "80%." I also have an 18" which compliments it perfectly and is a nice step down.

These are pretty versatile though they aren't the brightest and loudest, nor are they the darkest and trashiest...they are middle of the road.

I think they sound cool as effects cymbals and have plenty of power.

Strengths:
- Excellent quality
- Excellent clean china sound
- Plenty of power for most uses

Weaknessess:
- No larger than 18"
- Not really for all out metal