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Cymbals are the acoustic highlights of any drum kit. With crash, china, splash or effects cymbals, drummers shape dynamics and texture, while the hi-hat or ride cymbal keeps the groove steady and defines the rhythm.
Cymbals are produced in different ways: some fully machine-made, others completely hand-crafted, and many combining both – for example, machine-lathed blanks that are hand-hammered afterwards.
Most are made from B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) or similar alloys. These metals must be precisely processed to create a cymbal that is both resonant and durable. The alloy, thickness and hammering pattern determine the sound and feel.
Each cymbal is unique – even two of the same model will differ slightly. Hand-hammered cymbals usually have more complex tonal variations than machine-made ones, but every manufacturer ensures consistent sound within a series.
For example, in Zildjian’s Custom series, you can hear small tonal nuances between models, yet they all share the same musical character and high-quality response.
Leading brands like Zildjian, Meinl, Fame and Paiste offer cymbal sets that are pre-matched for a balanced sound. Sets often include a hi-hat, a ride and one or two crash cymbals — at a favourable bundle price.
Typical standard sizes: 14" for the hi-hat, 20" for the ride, and 16" or 18" for the crash. Other configurations are available for different genres and playing styles.
The most common size for hi-hats is 14". To prevent the cymbals from sticking together, tilt the bottom cymbal slightly so air can escape and no vacuum forms. Smaller 13" or larger 15" versions offer different tonal responses.
The ride cymbal provides a steady pulse in many genres. Common sizes are 20" or 22". Larger rides are heavier and produce a deeper tone. The bell offers a distinct, bell-like accent and projection, while flat rides without bells give a clear, controlled sound.
Crash cymbals are used for accents and transitions. Standard sizes are 16"–18", though smaller and larger versions exist. Thinner crashes respond quickly and are ideal for quieter settings; thicker ones cut better in loud mixes.
Beyond the standard ride, hi-hat and crash, many drummers add china cymbals, splash cymbals and effects cymbals to expand their sound palette.
China cymbals feature upturned edges and produce aggressive, trashy accents. Splash cymbals (around 12") create short, high-pitched bursts. Effect cymbals like ozone or stack types provide unusual, modern textures.
Percussion cymbals played by hand can be found under Percussion instruments.
