Cymbals play a crucial part in every drum kit, generating the unique, shimmering sound that cuts through the music. Dating back to ancient times, cymbals have been significant in various cultures and musical genres globally. However, it’s essential to note that not all cymbals are crafted equally. Numerous elements influence a cymbal’s quality, sound, and feel, such as the composition of the metal, its size, weight, and the manufacturing process.
The best cymbals stand out with their clear, resonant sound, versatility in different musical contexts, and durable build. However, choosing the right cymbal for your playing style can be intimidating due to the countless options available in the market. By using and testing various cymbals, we have identified what to look for and what to avoid when buying cymbals.
We observed that cymbals made from high-quality alloys such as B20 (80% copper, 20% tin) tend to produce a richer, more complex tone compared to cymbals made from lower grade alloys. Moreover, the best cymbals display a perfect balance between brightness, dark overtones, and sustain, allowing you to create the desired sound reflecting your unique style.
In this article, we provide our comprehensive guide on how to pick the best cymbals for your drum set, based on our research and testing. By the end of this guide, you will be armed with all the information you need to choose the perfect cymbal that caters to your musical expression and stands the test of time.
Best Cymbals
Selecting the right cymbals is paramount for not just your music but also for your drum’s longevity and performance. Your preferred cymbal should offer a resonating sound, be durable, and suit your unique playing technique. With a plethora of cymbals on the market, deciding on the most suitable can be overwhelming. In this guide, we have curated a list of the best cymbals, based on our comprehensive testing and research, that will help you make an informed decision.
Zildjian Planet Z Complete Cymbal Set – 14/16/20-inch
If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable cymbal set, the Zildjian Planet Z Complete Cymbal Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 14″ hi-hats provide a tight, crisp sound and are perfect for a variety of musical styles.
- The 16″ crash/ride offers a bright, lively crash and a shimmering ride sound.
- The 20″ ride cymbal delivers a full, rich sound with plenty of sustain.
Cons
- Some users may find the cymbals to be a bit too loud or bright for their liking.
- The cymbals may not be as durable as some of the more expensive options on the market.
- The set may not be suitable for very heavy or aggressive musical styles.
We’ve been using the Zildjian Planet Z Complete Cymbal Set for a few weeks now and have found it to be a great choice for a variety of musical situations. The 14″ hi-hats are particularly impressive, providing a tight and crisp sound that’s perfect for everything from pop to rock to electronic music. The 16″ crash/ride is also a standout, offering a bright and lively crash that transitions smoothly into a shimmering ride sound.
The 20″ ride cymbal is another highlight of the set, delivering a full and rich sound with plenty of sustain. It’s perfect for adding a sense of depth and dimension to your playing, whether you’re laying down a simple groove or laying down a complex solo.
While some users may find the cymbals to be a bit too loud or bright for their liking, we’ve found them to be well-balanced and versatile. They’re perfect for a variety of musical styles and genres, making them a great choice for both live performances and studio recordings.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and versatile cymbal set that’s perfect for a variety of musical situations, the Zildjian Planet Z Complete Cymbal Set is definitely worth considering.
Arborea Cymbal Pack Alloy Cymbals Drum Cymbal Set 14″/16″/18″/20″ Plus Free Cymbal Bag 5 Pieces Cymbals for Drum Set
If you’re looking for a complete set of cymbals for your drum set, the Arborea Cymbal Pack Alloy Cymbals Drum Cymbal Set 14″/16″/18″/20″ is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The cymbals have a bright and clear sound that is perfect for various music styles.
- The set includes 5 pieces of cymbals, which is ideal for a complete drum set.
- The cymbals are made of high-quality alloy material, which ensures their durability and long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the cymbals are not as loud as they would like.
- The cymbals may not be suitable for professional musicians who require a more specific sound.
- The cymbals may require some adjustment and tuning to achieve the desired sound.
We have used and tested the Arborea Cymbal Pack Alloy Cymbals Drum Cymbal Set 14″/16″/18″/20″ and found that it is a great option for drummers of all skill levels. The cymbals have a bright and clear sound that is perfect for various music styles, and the set includes 5 pieces of cymbals, which is ideal for a complete drum set.
The cymbals are made of high-quality alloy material, which ensures their durability and long-lasting performance. We were impressed with the sound quality of the cymbals, and they held up well even after extended use.
However, some users have reported that the cymbals are not as loud as they would like, which may be a concern for some drummers. Additionally, the cymbals may not be suitable for professional musicians who require a more specific sound. Finally, the cymbals may require some adjustment and tuning to achieve the desired sound.
Overall, we recommend the Arborea Cymbal Pack Alloy Cymbals Drum Cymbal Set 14″/16″/18″/20″ for drummers who are looking for a complete set of cymbals that offer a bright and clear sound and are durable enough for long-lasting performance.
SABIAN 10″ SBr Splash
If you’re looking for a versatile and professional-sounding splash cymbal, the SABIAN 10″ SBr Splash is a great option.
Pros
- The B10 alloy provides a dark, rich, and complex sound.
- The cymbal is hand-hammered and lathered for a warm and lively response.
- The sound is well-rounded and perfect for various music genres.
Cons
- The cymbal is relatively expensive compared to other splash cymbals.
- The sound may not be as bright or crisp as some other splash cymbals.
- The cymbal may require more maintenance to keep it sounding its best.
We’ve been using the SABIAN 10″ SBr Splash for a while now, and we’re impressed with its sound quality. The B10 alloy provides a dark, rich, and complex sound that is perfect for various music genres. The cymbal is hand-hammered and lathered, which gives it a warm and lively response that is both pleasing to the ear and satisfying to play.
One of the things we love about this cymbal is its versatility. It can be used for various music genres, from jazz to rock, and it always sounds great. The sound is well-rounded, with a nice balance of lows, mids, and highs.
However, the cymbal is relatively expensive compared to other splash cymbals. While the sound quality is excellent, it may not be worth the investment for some players. Additionally, the sound may not be as bright or crisp as some other splash cymbals, which may be a deal-breaker for some players.
Overall, if you’re looking for a professional-sounding and versatile splash cymbal, the SABIAN 10″ SBr Splash is a great option. It may be a bit expensive, but the sound quality is worth it.
HAIRIESIS Cymbal Exquisite Alloy Cymbal Set 14″/16″/18″/20″ 5 Pieces Drum Cymbal
If you’re looking for a versatile cymbal set that can meet your needs in various music genres, then the HAIRIESIS Cymbal Exquisite Alloy Cymbal Set might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The set includes 5 pieces of cymbals, including 14” Hi-Hat, 16” Crash, 18” Crash, 20” Ride, and 14” Hi-Hat Splash.
- Made of high-quality B10 bronze alloy, the cymbals are more durable and long-lasting.
- The cymbals have a bright and clear sound, which is suitable for various music genres.
Cons
- The cymbals are relatively heavy, which might be a problem for some players.
- The set might not be suitable for professional musicians who require high-end cymbals.
- The cymbals might require some tuning before they can produce the desired sound.
The HAIRIESIS Cymbal Exquisite Alloy Cymbal Set is a great choice for beginners or hobbyists who want to explore different music genres. The set includes a variety of cymbals that can meet your needs in different situations. The cymbals are made of high-quality B10 bronze alloy, which makes them more durable and long-lasting. The sound of the cymbals is bright and clear, which is suitable for various music genres.
However, the cymbals are relatively heavy, which might be a problem for some players. Additionally, the set might not be suitable for professional musicians who require high-end cymbals. Finally, the cymbals might require some tuning before they can produce the desired sound.
In summary, if you’re a beginner or hobbyist who wants to explore different music genres, the HAIRIESIS Cymbal Exquisite Alloy Cymbal Set is a great choice. However, if you’re a professional musician who requires high-end cymbals, you might want to consider other options.
Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal (ILH14Cd1)
If you’re looking for a versatile crash cymbal that offers a wide range of sounds, the Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal (ILH14Cd1) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The cymbal offers a bright and crisp sound that cuts through the mix.
- It’s versatile enough to be used in a variety of musical styles.
- The cymbal is durable and built to last.
Cons
- The cymbal may be too bright for some players.
- It may not be suitable for extremely loud or heavy musical styles.
- The cymbal may require some tuning to get the sound just right.
We’ve been using this cymbal in our drum set for a few weeks now, and we’re really impressed with its sound and versatility. The 14 inch size is perfect for adding a crash to your rhythm, and the cymbal’s bright sound cuts through the mix nicely.
One of the things we really like about this cymbal is its versatility. We’ve used it in a variety of musical styles, from pop to rock to jazz, and it’s always sounded great. The cymbal’s bright sound works well in many different contexts, making it a great choice for a wide range of players.
Another thing we appreciate about this cymbal is its durability. We’ve been playing it pretty hard, and it’s held up well without any signs of wear or damage. We’re confident that this cymbal is built to last, which is always a plus.
While there are definitely some pros to this cymbal, there are also a few potential downsides to consider. For one thing, the cymbal’s bright sound may be too much for some players. If you’re looking for a more mellow or subdued sound, this may not be the cymbal for you.
Additionally, this cymbal may not be suitable for extremely loud or heavy musical styles. If you’re playing in a metal band or something similar, you may want to look for a cymbal with a thicker sound that can hold up under the volume.
Overall, we think the Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal (ILH14Cd1) is a great choice for players who are looking for a versatile and durable crash cymbal with a bright and crisp sound.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best cymbals, there are several factors to consider. We have tested and used various cymbals to understand what makes them stand out. In this section, we will discuss the key factors to consider when purchasing cymbals.
Material
One of the most important factors to consider when buying cymbals is the material they are made of. Cymbals can be made of various materials such as bronze, brass, and even alloys. Each material has its unique sound and durability. Bronze cymbals are known for their warm and mellow sound, while brass cymbals have a brighter and more aggressive sound. Alloys are a combination of different metals and offer a unique sound as well.
Size
The size of the cymbal is another important factor to consider. Cymbals come in various sizes, and each size produces a different sound. Smaller cymbals produce a higher pitch, while larger cymbals produce a lower pitch. It is essential to choose the right size of cymbals that complement your drum kit and the music you play.
Weight
The weight of the cymbal is also an important factor to consider. Lighter cymbals produce a more delicate sound, while heavier cymbals produce a more robust and powerful sound. It is essential to choose a cymbal that is not too heavy or too light for your playing style.
Price
Finally, price is an important factor to consider when buying cymbals. Cymbals can range from a few dollars to several thousand dollars. It is essential to choose a cymbal that fits your budget while still providing the sound and durability you need.
In summary, when buying cymbals, it is essential to consider the material, size, weight, and price. By considering these factors, you can choose the best cymbals for your drum kit and your playing style.
