I got my first one of these cymbals at the end of 2010. I predominantly play extreme metal (mostly within the post- and doom categories), and occasionally jazz. So in a ride cymbal, I look for a wide variety of sounds, but definition is still important.
The good thing is, this cymbal gave me that. When played with the tip of the stick, a nice pingy sound is heard, especially if using nylon tips. The bell is nice and defined, but not overpowering - especially when compared to other cymbals (Paiste Alpha Rides can have ridiculously loud bells, I prefer the PST3!). Where I found the best sounds of the cymbal though, was in the heavier playing - I usually mount my ride cymbal a bit higher up, so I can use it as a crash and play with the side of the stick a lot. And it really delivers, getting everything from a shimmering light crash that really fills out the sound to a monstrous explosion of a crash.
Unfortunately, it's not all good news. Mine did start to develop some cracks, but considering that it was over two years old and it is a cheap cymbal, that can be expected. I found that it's not too great for jazz either - it's a bit too... Bland? I guess. Certainly when compared with some (admittedly more expensive) Zildjians, it lacks a lot of character and warmth.
But for rock/pop/metal/anything that isn't jazz/soul/r'n'b, this cymbal will do the job if you need a replacement fast, or if you're starting out. Due to being too poor to upgrade, I got another one as soon as my first one cracked. Well worth the money.
