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The 18 Best Cymbals 2025 – Our Top Picks for All Budgets

by Bethany /
24/12/2024

Table of Contents

Everyone knows that cymbals are a crucial part of a drum kit, but only a drummer will know just how different they can be and how they can impact an overall sound and setup. It’s important to choose the right set of cymbals that give you the tone you want, whether that’s a full-bodied crash or a well-articulated hi-hat sound. 

For this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best cymbals on the market right now. We’ve chosen options for various styles, purposes, and budgets, meaning every drummer is catered for, and we’ll break down all their features, including materials and manufacturing processes. Even if you aren’t on the hunt for a new set of cymbals, you’ll be well-equipped with cymbal knowledge by the end of the article! 

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In a hurry?  

CymbalUSP Shop
Meinl Byzance 16’’ Dual CrashTwo playing surfaces.Check the current price
Istanbul Agop 11'', 13'' & 15'' 3 Piece Clap StackMimics electronic handclap sound.Check the current price
Zildjian A 21'' Sweet Ride CymbalOne of the most popular ride cymbals.Check the current price
Paiste 2002 18’’ Crash CymbalExtremely durable and versatile.Check the current price
CZ3 Complete Cymbal Pack by Gear4musicDurability at an affordable price.Check the current price

Why we’ve chosen these cymbals 

Of course, sound quality was the first thing we considered when choosing these cymbals – possibly the most important factor. We’ve included a variety of cymbals that deliver rich, dynamic tones suitable for all kinds of music styles. Plus, there’s a nice mix of cymbal types for individual needs.

We also looked at the durability and value-for-money of each cymbal. As you’ll be hitting these for hours on end during practice sessions, rehearsals, and gigs, they need to be built to a high-quality standard, with a robustness that lasts for years to come and a tone that stays just as good. 

It’s all fine choosing well-made, great-sounding cymbals, but if they’re from brands you don’t recognise, chances are you’ll scroll right past. So, we’ve made sure to include a mix of well-known cymbal brands as well as newer players in the cymbal area.

There’s a reason many of these brands are so renowned, but there’s also a reason we’ve included some lesser-known brands, whether it’s for their manufacturing processes or excellent sound.

All in all, we have a pretty varied list of cymbals here, each tested by our drum team. These cymbals have been carefully considered and meet the needs of both seasoned pros and aspiring drummers.

The best cymbals 

1. Meinl Byzance 16’’ Dual Crash – Perfect for expressive players 

Meinl Byzance 16" Extra Dry Dual CrashKey features

  • 16 inches, crafted from B20 bronze alloy 
  • Raw, unlathed centre with a brilliant edge 
  • Hand-hammered 

Pros 

  • Rich, complex sound with a blend of dark and bright tones 
  • Quick response and explosive attack 
  • Visually striking with its dual finish 

Cons 

  • Not suitable for heavier genres  

A personal favourite cymbal of mine is the Meinl Byzance 16” Dual Crash. I love this cymbal for its unique dual finish and lively sound. Made from B20 bronze and hand-hammered for that extra touch, it boasts an unlathed, raw centre that gives you dark, earthy tones. In comparison, the polished edges add a bright shimmer that cuts through any mix effortlessly. 

With its medium-thin profile, the Dual Crash responds quickly, making it perfect if you’re looking to add accents or make those expressive crashes really pop. It’s a great option for lighter styles such as jazz, fusion, and funk – basically anything if you want rich, nuanced tones with a blend of warmth and clarity. I started using this cymbal in 2017 and it’s been a favourite of mine ever since!  

Overall, this cymbal is a fantastic crash for drummers who like visually appealing cymbals with a dry but versatile sound.


2. Istanbul Agop 11”, 13” & 15” 3 Piece Clap Stack – The best effects cymbal  

Istanbul Agop 11'', 13'' & 15'' 3 Piece Clap StackKey features 

  • Three cymbals sized 11″, 13″, and 15″, designed for stacking 
  • B20 bronze alloy 
  • Mimics electronic handclap sounds with adjustable tightness 

Pros 

  • Versatile sound control with stack configuration options 
  • Perfect for creating sharp, short percussive effects 
  • High-quality, durable hand-hammered craftsmanship 

Cons 

  • Limited use for traditional cymbal tones 

Istanbul’s Clap Stack is an innovative cymbal set that provides crisp, electronic-inspired clap sounds. Designed in collaboration with Trevor Lawrence Jr., it’s the first of its kind. Crafted from premium B20 bronze and hand-hammered for that special touch, you can easily stack these cymbals to dial in just the right level of tightness and sound control. 

The smaller sizes give you a snappy, short attack, while the 15” cymbal adds a beautifully rounded tone. Plus, it’s lightweight and responsive, making it perfect for funk, pop, hip-hop, and electronic styles where rhythmic accents are essential. 

These cymbals will give you a sharp, crisp sound – fantastic for adding versatility and a creative twist to your setup, particularly if you’re a drummer who wants to experiment with unique, hybrid sounds.  


3. Zildjian 21” Sweet Ride Cymbal – A great versatile cymbal 

Zildjian A 21'' Sweet Ride Cymbal, Brilliant FinishKey features 

  • 21 inches, medium-weight design 
  • Brilliant finish
  • Sweet, balanced tone 

Pros 

  • Highly versatile, suitable for multiple genres 
  • Clean stick definition with a warm wash 
  • Bright bell sound that cuts through the mix 

Cons 

  • May feel too bright for drummers preferring darker tones 

This list wouldn’t be complete without the Zildjian A 21” Sweet Ride. It’s incredibly versatile, with a well-balanced tone that suits just about any drummer. The 21-inch medium-weight design offers clear stick definition and a bright, cutting bell sound that really pops. On top of that, the brilliant finish adds a smooth, warm wash, perfect for playing at lower volumes.

Made from Zildjian’s high-quality B20 bronze alloy, this cymbal can be used as a ride and a crash. It’s the perfect all-rounder for your kit, whether you’re a rock, pop, jazz, or blues drummer.

With its crisp articulation, huge dynamics, and classic sound, the Sweet Ride has become a firm favourite, especially for live gigs and studio sessions. You really can’t go wrong with it.  


4. Paiste 2002 18’’ Crash Cymbal – An iconic cymbal range 

Paiste 2002 18'' Crash CymbalKey features 

  • 18 inches, medium-thin weight 
  • Made from B8 Bronze Alloy 
  • Hand-hammered and lathed for precision 

Pros 

  • Bright, full-bodied crash sound with great projection 
  • Quick attack and smooth, even decay 
  • Versatile for rock, pop, and fusion styles 

Cons 

  • May lack depth for darker or more subtle genres

The Paiste 2002 series is a popular go-to for legendary drummers worldwide, such as John Bonham! The Paiste 2002 18” Crash Cymbal is known for its bright, powerful sound. Made from Paiste’s signature B8 bronze alloy, it delivers a shimmering, full-bodied crash that works well across a variety of playing styles.

With its medium-thin weight, this cymbal offers a quick attack and a smooth, even decay – perfect for both live performances and studio recordings. Hand-hammered and lathed, it boasts a polished, balanced tone that fits seamlessly into rock, pop, fusion, and other energetic genres.

Its responsive nature makes it ideal for accents and driving rhythms, adding presence to your performance without overwhelming the mix. With its classic Paiste craftsmanship and impressive versatility, this crash is a dependable choice for drummers seeking a consistent, high-quality sound.


5. CZ3 Complete Cymbal Pack by Gear4music – Best budget-friendly cymbal pack 

CZ3 Complete Cymbal Pack by Gear4music Key features 

  • Complete cymbal set: includes hi-hats, crash, ride cymbals, and a bag 
  • Durable brass alloy 
  • Lathed and hammered finishes

Pros 

  • Affordable, great value for a full cymbal set 
  • Provides a bright, punchy sound 
  • Perfect for practice and entry-level playing 

Cons 

  • Lacks tonal complexity compared to premium cymbals 

The CZ3 Complete Cymbal Pack by Gear4music is an excellent option for drummers looking for high-quality cymbals at an affordable price. The set includes hi-hats, a crash cymbal, a ride cymbal, and a bag for easy transport. Made from durable brass alloy, these cymbals deliver bright, focused tones that are perfect for practice sessions and early gigs.

Their lightweight build offers a responsive feel and a punchy attack, making them a great fit for beginner drummers and versatile enough for genres like pop and rock. While they might not have the tonal complexity of high-end bronze cymbals, they’re a solid choice if you’re after durable, good-sounding cymbals that won’t break the bank.


6. Stagg Genghis 15” Medium Hi-Hat – Best for subtle styles 

Stagg Genghis 15'' Medium Hi-HatKey features 

  • 15 inches, medium weight 
  • B20 bronze alloy 
  • Hand-hammered

Pros 

  • Warm, dark sound with clear articulation 
  • Excellent dynamic control for versatile play 
  • Durable, high-quality craftsmanship 

Cons 

  • May lack brightness for high-energy styles 

The Stagg Genghis 15’’ Medium Hi-Hats are a great choice if you need to bring some warmth and richness to your drumming. Made from B20 bronze alloy and hand-hammered for a touch of craftsmanship, these hi-hats offer a unique character and depth that’s unusual to find in hi-hats! This is partly due to their size.

At 15 inches, they’re slightly larger than standard hi-hats, giving them a fuller tone that’s perfect for genres like blues and jazz. While they’re great in low-to-medium volume settings, they’re versatile enough to fit into a range of musical styles and hold their own when needed.


7. Dream Cymbal Bliss Series 20” Crash/Ride – The best affordable crash/ride 

Dream Cymbal Bliss Series 20'' Crash/RideKey features 

  • 20 inches, versatile crash/ride design 
  • Made from hand-hammered B20 bronze 
  • Warm, vintage-style tone 

Pros 

  • Smooth transition between crash and ride functions 
  • Excellent dynamic range and responsiveness 
  • Warm, earthy sound that suits various styles 

Cons 

  • May lack the cutting power for heavier genres 

I’m a huge fan of the Dream Cymbal Bliss Series 20’’ Crash/Ride. It’s a versatile cymbal that makes it super easy to switch between crashing and riding. Courtesy of the B20 bronze construction, there’s a warm, vintage-inspired tone that comes from this cymbal, and it really shines in jazz, blues, and light rock.  

The Bliss Series is crafted using ancient, traditional techniques. Each cymbal is hand-forged and hand-hammered, which adds a personal touch. Plus, the dynamic range is fantastic, with smooth, controlled crashes and great stick definition when you ride. The medium-thin weight gives it a responsive feel, ideal if you want something that feels incredibly nuanced to play. 

In essence, the Dream Cymbal Bliss Series represents great craftsmanship and tonal quality.


8. 3pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack by Gear4music – The best low volume cymbal pack 

3pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack by Gear4music, GoldKey features 

  • Includes a set of hi-hats, crash, and ride cymbals 
  • Perforated designs 
  • Crafted from a lightweight alloy 

Pros 

  • Great for practice in noise-sensitive environments 
  • Retains natural cymbal feel despite reduced volume 
  • Affordable and beginner-friendly 

Cons 

  • Limited tonal range compared to full-volume cymbals

If you want to practise quietly without losing that authentic cymbal feel, the Gear4music 3pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack is ideal. This set includes hi-hats, a crash, and a ride cymbal, all specifically designed to drastically reduce volume.

Made from a strong yet lightweight alloy, these cymbals are perfect for practising in apartments, shared spaces, or anywhere noise might be an issue. While they don’t have the full volume of traditional cymbals, they still provide a responsive and consistent playing experience, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced drummers.

On top of that, this pack is a budget-friendly way to sharpen your skills without worrying about disturbing others.


9. Meinl Classic Custom Dark Effects pack – The best dark cymbal pack 

Meinl Classics Custom Dark Effects Cymbal SetKey features 

  • Pack includes splash, china, and trash cymbals
  • B10 bronze alloy 
  • Dark, aggressive tone with a polished finish 

Pros 

  • Versatile pack for creating dynamic and unique effects 
  • Loud and cutting tones, ideal for live performances 
  • Highly durable with a visually striking finish 

Cons 

  • May be too specialised for general use

Meinl’s Classic Custom Dark Effects Pack delivers an impressively bold sound. The set includes a splash, china, and trash cymbal, all crafted from durable B10 bronze alloy – built to withstand plenty of use.

With their dark, polished finish, these cymbals don’t just sound powerful, they look striking too. They provide sharp, dynamic accents that are perfect for heavier music styles, adding punch and explosive energy to your drumming.

Whether you’re looking to create sharp textures or dramatic effects, this pack offers versatility and plenty of inspiration for your creativity.


10. Zildjian K 14” Light Hi-Hats – The best lightweight hi-hat  

Zildjian K 14'' Light Hi-HatsKey features 

  • 14 inches, lightweight design 
  • Hand-hammered B20 bronze alloy construction 
  • Traditional finish

Pros 

  • Delivers a rich, expressive “chick” sound 
  • Excellent dynamic range and control for nuanced play 
  • Suited to a variety of genres, including jazz and acoustic styles 

Cons 

  • May lack the power needed for high-energy genres 

The Zildjian K 14” Light Hi-Hats are a fantastic choice for drummers who want warmth and a rich tone. Made from B20 bronze and finished with a traditional touch, these hi-hats produce a beautifully expressive sound, whilst their lightweight design ensures you can play quickly and accurately, making them perfect for intricate beats. 

Thanks to the hand-hammered craftsmanship, the K Light Hi-Hats give you some excellent dynamic range and control. They produce a crisp “chick” sound and smooth open tones – perfect for jazz, blues, and acoustic settings where you might want your drumming to blend in well without losing its character. 

Many professional drummers swear by these hi-hats. They truly represent the high quality of Zildjian’s K series.


11. Istanbul Agop Signature Range – The best cymbals for jazz 

Istanbul Agop Signature 16'' Hi-Hat CymbalsKey features

  • Hand-hammered B20 bronze alloy construction 
  • Available in a wide range of sizes for versatile applications 
  • Dark, complex tones with a smooth finish 

Pros

  • Exceptional craftsmanship with unique tonal character 
  • Versatile across genres like jazz, fusion, and world music 
  • Durable and reliable for professional use 

Cons

  • Premium pricing may not suit all budgets 

The Istanbul Agop Signature Range cymbals are the result of years of craftsmanship, originally inspired by their founder, Agop Tomurcuk. Each cymbal is hand-hammered from B20 bronze alloy, giving you great control over tone and projection. With a variety of sizes available, this range offers rich, complex sounds perfect for jazz, fusion, and world music.  

Designed to help professional drummers express their artistry and dynamics, these cymbals are responsive, durable, and a favourite choice for live performances and studio recordings. While they come at a premium price, the Signature Range ensures outstanding quality and sound that will stand the test of time.


12. Zildjian K 18” Thin Dark Crash Cymbal – A frequently recorded cymbal   

Zildjian K 18'' Thin Dark Crash CymbalKey features 

  • 18 inches, medium weight for versatile performance 
  • Made from hand-hammered B20 bronze alloy 
  • Traditional finish with warm, dark tones 

Pros 

  • Rich, complex sound with excellent sustain 
  • Versatile for various genres, including jazz, rock, and fusion 
  • Precise craftsmanship ensures a consistent tone 

Cons 

  • May be too dark for players seeking brighter crash tones 

The Zildjian K 18” Thin Dark Crash Cymbal blends warmth and richness in its tone. Crafted from premium B20 bronze and expertly hand-hammered, it delivers a dark, complex sound with a smooth, satisfying sustain. Its medium weight ensures a responsive feel, whether you need a bright accent or a wash ride.

The traditional finish enhances its warmth, making it a go-to choice for drummers in jazz, fusion, and rock genres. It’s even featured on countless hit records, played by legends like Art Blakey, Elvin Jones, and Tony Williams.

Whether you’re after a crash that cuts through the mix or one that blends beautifully in quieter moments, the K 18″ Thin Dark Crash is a good choice.


13. Meinl Byzance Vintage 14″ Sand Hi-hat – The best vintage sound  

Meinl Byzance Vintage 14" Sand Hi-hatKey features 

  • 14 inches, medium-thin weight 
  • Sandblasted surface with hand-hammered shaping 
  • Crafted from B20 bronze alloy 

Pros 

  • Distinct, dry sound with excellent articulation 
  • Versatile across genres like jazz, funk, and studio work 
  • Unique aesthetic with a sandblasted finish 

Cons 

  • Limited volume for high-energy styles 

I’ve been using the Meinl Byzance Vintage 14″ Sand Hi-Hats since 2017, and I love them! Designed in collaboration with Benny Greb, you can instantly see the beautiful, experienced craftsmanship that has gone into these hi-hats. With their unique sandblasted surface and hand-hammered B20 bronze construction, they deliver a dry response, short sustain, and a clear, crisp sound, making them fantastic for articulate playing.

Thanks to their thin design, they’re great for genres like jazz, funk, R&B, and even some electronic music. From my experience, though, if you’re playing something that demands more energy or bright, loud tones, these might not be the best fit. They have a lovely dark, low-pitched sound that adds a vintage vibe, perfect for anyone looking for that dry, crisp quality.  

Plus, the stunning sandblasted finish makes them visually striking, really complementing their rich sound. I’d highly recommend the Byzance Vintage Sand Hi-Hats if you want precision and subtlety in your drumming.  


14. Sabian AA 19” Holy China Cymbal, Brilliant Finish – The best aggressive-sounding china 

Sabian AA 19'' Holy China Cymbal, Brilliant FinishKey features

  • 19 inches, designed with perforations
  • Made from B20 bronze alloy 
  • Brilliant finish 

Pros 

  • Explosive attack and powerful projection 
  • Unique perforated design enhances the aggressive character 
  • Durable and reliable for high-energy styles 

Cons 

  • Lacks subtlety for softer genres 

The Sabian AA 19” Holy China Cymbal has been designed in collaboration with Chad Smith and is all about bringing explosive energy and a bold tone to your music. Made from high-quality B20 bronze and featuring a cool perforated design, it delivers that cutting sound with a sharp attack and a quick decay. Put simply, this cymbal is guaranteed to be loud.  

With its brilliant finish, it’s perfect for rock, metal, and punk genres where you really need your sound to stand out. Plus, its unique design ensures that this cymbal will perform reliably and powerfully.  

Whether you’re performing or recording, the Holy China offers amazing sonic power, combining durability with a striking visual flair.  


15. Zildjian K Constantinople 20” Bounce Ride Cymbal – The best premium ride cymbal 

Zildjian K Constantinople 20'' Bounce Ride CymbalKey features 

  • 20 inches, medium weight 
  • Hand-hammered and lathed for a traditional sound 
  • Made from B20 bronze alloy for rich tonal complexity 

Pros 

  • Warm, dark tones with excellent stick definition 
  • Versatile across genres like jazz, blues, and world music 
  • Superior craftsmanship ensures a unique character 

Cons 

  • Limited projection in louder musical settings 

The Zildjian K Constantinople 20” Bounce Ride Cymbal suits pretty much any drummer. Hand-hammered and lathed with traditional techniques, it offers a warm, dark sound along with a woody stick definition that really shines through. 

Its medium weight allows it to be super responsive, making it an excellent choice for jazz grooves, blues patterns, and any lighter genres where you want to highlight the nuances of your playing. Made from high-quality B20 bronze alloy, it gives you a rich, lush tone that’s full of character. 

Many drummers love the Constantinople Bounce Ride, especially those who aim to achieve expressive playing with the added bonus of high quality. With its incredible craftsmanship and versatility, it’s a great ride cymbal to add to your setup.  


16. Meinl Byzance 21” Extra Dry Transition Ride – The best cymbal collaboration  

Meinl Byzance 21'' Extra Dry Transition RideKey features 

  • 21 inches, medium-thin weight 
  • Raw, unlathed surface 
  • Hand-hammered B20 bronze construction 

Pros 

  • Warm, dark tone with dry stick definition 
  • Versatile for dynamic genres like jazz, fusion, and world music 
  • Excellent craftsmanship for unique character and precision 

Cons 

  • May not project enough for louder, high-energy styles 

I’m a big fan of Meinl’s collaboration with Mike Johnston. The Meinl Byzance 21” Extra Dry Transition Ride is an exciting cymbal made from hand-hammered B20 bronze and features a raw, unlathed surface that gives it a warm, dark tone. Plus, you get that precise stick definition with very minimal wash – perfect for intricate beats. 

What I love about its medium-thin weight is how responsive it is; it works well for styles like jazz, fusion, and even experimental music. The raw finish not only looks great but also contributes to its unique, earthy sound. 

Working with one of the top educators and drummers in the world, the Extra Dry Transition Ride offers a great mix of control, dynamics, and expressive tone. It’s definitely a top choice. 


17. Zildjian A New Beat 14” Hi-Hats – The best all-rounder   

Zildjian A New Beat 14'' Hi-HatsKey features 

  • 14 inches, with a medium top and heavy bottom
  • Crafted from B20 bronze alloy with symmetrical machine hammering 
  • Wide groove lathing

Pros 

  • Crisp “chick” sound with precise articulation 
  • Versatile for a wide range of genres and playing styles 
  • Excellent balance and dynamic control 

Cons 

  • May not offer the raw tonal character preferred by some drummers 

The Zildjian A New Beat 14’’ Hi-Hats are often seen as some of the best versatile hi-hats out there. They deliver a clean and articulate sound that fits in beautifully with any musical style you’re into. With a medium-weight top cymbal paired with a heavier bottom cymbal, these hi-hats strike the perfect balance between control, brightness, and dynamic response. 

Thanks to their wide groove lathing, the B20 bronze alloy shines with rich harmonics, while the symmetrical machine hammering gives you that consistent tone you can rely on. Whether you’re on stage or in the studio, these hi-hats provide a crisp “chick” sound and clear stick definition that will work for your style. 


18. O-China Effect Cymbal by Gear4music – The best affordable effects cymbal  

10" O-China Effect Cymbal by Gear4musicKey features 

  • 10 inches
  • Handmade from B20 bronze alloy 
  • Bright, high-pitched tone with fast decay 

Pros 

  • Perfect for adding quick, trashy accents 
  • Versatile use as a standalone or stackable cymbal 
  • Durable construction for consistent performance 

Cons 

  • Limited projection for louder environments 

The O-China Effect Cymbal from Gear4music is a fantastic little addition to any drummer’s setup. Handcrafted from professional-grade B20 bronze, this 10-inch cymbal creates a sharp, bright tone with a quick decay, making it perfect for snappy accents or quick fills. 

We love how versatile this cymbal is. It shines on its own, but you can also stack it with other cymbals to create some unique sounds. The compact size and dry response make it a great choice for experimental setups, letting you achieve everything from clap-like effects to subtle tonal shifts when you place it on a snare drum. 

If you’re looking to explore new creative sounds or just want to enhance your kit without breaking the bank, the O-China Effect Cymbal is a quality choice.

The best cymbal brands 

If you want the best cymbals, you’ll need to know which brands to look for. Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, and Paiste are super popular around the world, and for good reason. They offer a fantastic variety of cymbals that cater to all sorts of musical styles. Plus, they use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure you get great sound and durability. 

There are also boutique brands like Istanbul Agop and Dream Cymbals. They’re known for their unique, hand-hammered designs that add a special touch for those looking for something a little different. Whether you need versatile all-around cymbals or something tailored to a specific genre, these brands have some awesome options. 

To explore more about what makes these cymbal makers exceptional, check out our article on the best cymbal brands 

Featured image - Best Cymbal Brands

How to find the best cymbals for you

Materials 

Cymbals are usually crafted from bronze alloys, and you’ll often find B20 (80% copper, 20% tin) and B8 (92% copper, 8% tin) as the most popular choices. B20 cymbals are known for their warmth and rich sound, perfect for adding complexity to your music.

On the other hand, B8 cymbals shine with a brighter and more straightforward tone. If you’re just starting, brass cymbals are a great, budget-friendly option that can fit nicely into entry-level kits. 


Sound characteristics 

When choosing cymbals, you should think about what sound you want. Consider whether you prefer a dark or bright tone, a loud or subtle projection, and the brilliance of a cymbal’s finish. Darker cymbals like the Zildjian K series offer rich, warm tones, while brighter options like Sabian AAX are crisp and cutting. Long sustain suits genres like jazz, while a dry sound works well for intricate, low-volume styles. 


Genre-specific options 

Jazz drummers usually love cymbals that have a longer sustain and a bit more complexity. On the other hand, rock and metal players tend to prefer cymbals that are louder and built to last. It’s also interesting to see that some jazz cymbals are making their way into rock and fusion music because of their versatility, though it’s not as common for rock cymbals to be seen in jazz music.


Your setup 

Think about your specific needs – do you want all-purpose cymbals or specialised additions? A setup for acoustic gigs might require dry, low-volume cymbals, while for studio sessions, you might need precise stick definition. 

FAQs 

What cymbals should every drummer have? 

Every drummer should have a hi-hat, a crash cymbal, and a ride cymbal. These three form the core setup and provide essential sounds for most genres. Additional cymbals like splashes or chinas can expand your kit, but the foundation starts with these staples. 


What are the big 4 cymbal companies? 

The big 4 cymbal companies are Zildjian, Sabian, Paiste, and Meinl. These brands dominate the market with their innovative designs and wide range of cymbals for all genres. Their long-standing reputations make them trusted choices for drummers worldwide. 


How do I choose a cymbal? 

To choose a cymbal, consider your musical style, budget, and the sound characteristics you want. Listen for the kind of tone, sustain, and response that suit your playing. We recommend trying out cymbals in a store or comparing demos online to help you make the best decision. 

Final thoughts 

No matter your style or budget, this list of the best cymbals is sure to have something for everyone. Investing in the right cymbals can transform your drumming experience, so choose the ones that feel right for you and suit your specific needs. 

 If you want to learn more, check out some of our other posts:

The 11 Best Snare Drums – Options for Every Budget

The 9 Best Cymbal Brands to Suit All Drummers

The 11 Best Cymbals for Metal

 

Beth is a drummer and songwriter from Hull. Having played music from an early age, Beth has been writing and producing original work with All Gone South, a five-piece band who began their journey in their early teens. After achieving a degree and master’s in Music at Leeds Conservatoire, Beth’s experience provides a great foundation for a future career in the industry. Beth continues to follow her passion within music, playing in a multitude of bands within East Yorkshire.

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