Originally Posted by Freebase Dali

Paiste is pretty much the cult fave for most people I come across. I personally only like their rides and light crashes, and it depends on the particular cymbal. Best idea is to go down to the local shop and test some out. Try out the Paiste and Zildjians. Stay away from the Sabians, especially the B8 pros, unless you like really bright, ringy cymbals that have no wash whatsoever. They're cheaper than Paiste and Zildjian, but they'll annoy you to death. Sabian splashes are ok, though. They decay quickly enough so that it isn't an issue.

Also, no kit is complete without a nasty china. Wuhan's a cult classic that's extremely cheap. Go for the smaller ones, as the larger are... how can I put this... overly obnoxious. I forget the sizes, but try out the next to smallest.