From what I understand, I don't think there were any changes, and if there were any- the differences are pretty subtle. Now- the big difference in sound between an old Big Beat and a new Big Beat could be that the newer one isn't "broken in", so to speak. But play those new Giant Beats for awhile and they will get broken in.

Edit- take your question to www.paiste-only.com, they could possibly answer better than I.

I had been playing a 20" White label GB for a couple years, until it cracked a couple months ago...

I was heartbroken as this cymbal is THE cymbal sound i've been looking for for years! Perfect crash/ride. 1880g, paiste sizzle, lovely and warm too!

I went out to my local music mega store thinking "no biggie I'll just pick up one of those reissues I've been hearing good things about."

Sorry not even close!

In my opinion singer the new reissues just don't sound the same. Don't get me wrong the newer cymbals are indeed nice in their own way, but they don't hold a candle to the old ones. The originals have a smokey sound that the new ones lack. To my ears the reissues sound louder and more harsh, brash, and have a bit of a weird overtone. Also, I think the older GB's play a bit heavier and have a nice cushioned stick feel. The reissues play almost like a lighter crash. Light but highly tensioned.

Needless to say I finally tracked down another original GB and gladly paid the $ these pies are starting to command.

These are just my opinions, and they are based on the 3 original GB 20's i've had come through my hands. YMMV but in my opinion close, but no cigar.Violin

-Jon

Hey Jon,

Got any leads on more white labels? I need a 18" and 20" to match this 24":

I currently use GB's 18-20-24 and they sound GREAT i bought them used a few yrs. ago, but i dont know the year.

I also use a 16 BL 2002 for lighter/faster crash

I'm very happy with this set up