Don't think it was a china. Artimus Pyle was the drummer at that point. Think he was a Zildjian guy then. Studio cut more subtle that live versions but sounds like the same cymbal. Looks like the brilliant line A's maybe? Sounds thin and trashy. He's on FB in the Artimus Pyle Band. Can always ask him? No better source than the man himself!

Here's a live YT cut from 76.

[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWBoeY0AAec"]Lynyrd Skynyrd-Saturday Night Special-1976 - YouTube[/ame]

Notice that both of his big crash cymbals in the front of his kit have a large chunk missing. You can see the chunk in the crash on his right in the beginning of the video, and the one to his left at about 2:31 in the video. I'm sure that had a lot to do with the trashy sound. Also, if there are large chunks knocked out, there are likely cracks all around the edges. I've experienced this with an 18" A Fast Crash at church. There are no chunks missing, although we're getting close, but there are tiny cracks all around the edge. I've noticed that it sounds a little trashier than before, and it's noticeably drier than before. Anyway, I bet the chunks - and likely cracks - in Mr. Pyle's cymbals explain the trashiness you're hearing.

Lynn

Thanks for the help guys!

I will try asking Mr. Pyle himself.

Wes