the natural sound of a cymbal

I would tend to believe that Tpreaves is correct.

If one could hear those differences on a recording, that would be a very good recording/playback system.

If you can hear it live, you should be able to hear it on a very good playback system.

I can hear the effects of humidity on the sound of a symbol with my eyes closed and a glass of red wine.

A good man knows his own limitations, but IS NOT stupid enough to assume everyone else has the same. The very first recording mentioned(Sheffield Drum Record); includes in it's liner notes the differences one can hear ON THE RECORD(or CD), between the cymbals Ron Tutt is using, from those of Jim Keltner's. If YOU can't hear the differences, whether it be a result of an unresolving system, a poorly recorded set, or your own lack of aural accuity/training: Sorry about your luck, but that does not apply to everyone! The sounds and effects of various cymbals(brands and series) are NOT subtle in the least, and are easily discernable, on a decent recording(given a resolving playback system). My guess would be that most of you nay-sayers can't tell the difference between the sounds of a Crash, Crash-Ride, China, Hi-Hat, Splash or Bell cymbal LIVE, let alone on a recording.

Mr T: Another excellent recording(re: cymbals), is the original Columbia(CS8192) 'Time out'. I've still got a pressing from 1971, that captures Joe Morello's(may he rest in peace) silky Zildjian cymbals beautifully(especially on 'Take Five').