I've got a pair of 1960s A's in similar weight -- 650g over 905g. I like how quick and full their sound opens up when played open and the live sizzle they give when closed lightly. As you might expect from thin cymbals, they can be pretty lively, even at lower volumes. But they also have a few traits that could be considered drawbacks... For one thing, they might have the quietest chick of any hi-hats I've ever heard. The thin cymbals also give a different feel. There's less firmness and not a whole lot of rebound, so if you ever roll or play fast doubles on your hi-hat, you'll have to use some willpower (and good finger technique) to eke those notes out cleanly.

I look at them as a niche pair and I think you'd want something a bit heavier for the rock/blues/funk context I think you're shooting for. My usual hi-hats are a pair of 14" medium Sabian AA's (1072g over 1509g), which I find to be similar to New Beats. Something like that would probably be a better fit and give you more versatility.

Every AZ is different. Drastically different. All that matters is the sound/feel, I would put no stock in the weights or anything else. They vary drastically and most of them suck, but some don't. That's the story of AZ.

Thanks...I really appreciate your replies.

My gut has been telling me I should skip these and continue the hunt for New Beats. It sounds like you're confirming that suspicion.

First off, play them. If you like them, and the price is right, pick them up. Playing them in a non-band environment is not going to be the same as playing them "live", at full tilt. Maybe, if this is a friend, you could borrow them for your next practice session. New Beats sell very well, and there is a reason for it.

unfortunately, this is the crux of my problem. i can't play or even listen to them...i know, the cardinal sin of buying cymbals without hearing them first. this is why i'm trying to figure out what's the safest bet in my situation. i don't live in an urban area where i can try out a lot of used cymbals and not yet willing (since i'm new to the drums) to drop the coin necessary to buy decent cymbals new at local shops.

I also have a pair of vinatge A's from the 60's they don't work for my style of music, I play Sound Edge black label with my band and they project like nothing else I've ever played, I also hold some nice A's in my collection but unless I do jazz, they also don't get much playing time, I use 2002's almost exclusively now.