Ever been to a concert and felt the music wash over you, especially when the drummer’s ride cymbal takes over? That shimmering, sustained sound can be pure magic! But have you ever tried to pick one for yourself? It’s like entering a jungle of metal, with sizes, brands, and sounds that can make your head spin.
Choosing a ride cymbal is more complicated than it seems. You might get frustrated because you don’t know where to start, which cymbal fits your style, or what the heck “wash” even means! Picking the wrong one can sound awful and mess up your entire drum set. Plus, they are expensive, so you want to get it right the first time.
Don’t worry! This post will help you. We’ll break down everything you need to know, from the different types of ride cymbals to the sounds they make. You’ll learn how to choose the best ride for your music style and budget. By the end, you’ll be ready to find the perfect cymbal and start making some amazing music. Let’s dive in and explore the world of ride cymbals!
Our Top 5 Ride Cymbals Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Ride Cymbal (ZP20R) | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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Meinl 20″ Ride Cymbal – HCS Traditional Finish Brass for Drum Set | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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ULUOBO Ride Cymbal | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Zildjian 22″ S Medium Ride | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Avedis Zildjian Company 20 inch I Series Ride Cymbal | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Ride Cymbals Detailed Reviews
1. Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Ride Cymbal (ZP20R)
Rating: 9.1/10
The Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Ride Cymbal (ZP20R) is a cymbal for drummers. This ride cymbal is part of the redesigned Planet Z series from Zildjian. It’s made in the USA from brass. This cymbal is designed for beginner and intermediate drummers. It gives a bright sound and helps drummers cut through the music.
What We Like:
- The ZP20R is a good way for new drummers to start.
- It’s made in the USA.
- The cymbal makes a bright, cutting sound.
- It offers a focused sound.
- The cymbal is heavy, which gives good stick definition.
- It has a good sound quality for the price.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some drummers might want a more complex sound.
- Brass cymbals are not as high quality as other types.
The Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Ride Cymbal (ZP20R) is a solid choice for drummers who are just starting. It provides a good sound and is budget-friendly.
2. Meinl 20″ Ride Cymbal – HCS Traditional Finish Brass for Drum Set
Rating: 8.6/10
The Meinl 20″ Ride Cymbal is a big step up from cheap beginner cymbals. This cymbal is made in Germany and built for drummers who are starting out or playing at an intermediate level. It is made of brass and has a traditional finish. This cymbal gives you a crisp, bright sound with a clear “ping” and a good sustain. It’s designed to sound great and last a long time, even if you play hard. The HCS line offers many different types and sizes of cymbals.
What We Like:
- The sound is much better than stock cymbals, sounding like real songs.
- It is built well and won’t break easily.
- The sound is bright and clear, with a good bell.
- It looks nice with a shiny finish.
- It is made in Germany with quality materials.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be higher than some beginner cymbals.
If you want a good ride cymbal that sounds great and lasts, this is a good choice. It’s a great upgrade for any beginner or intermediate drummer.
3. ULUOBO Ride Cymbal
Rating: 9.5/10
The ULUOBO Ride Cymbal, a 20-inch gold ride cymbal, is made for beginner drummers. It’s a great entry-level cymbal. This cymbal is designed to help students learn. It offers a durable and affordable option for practice and lessons. This cymbal is a good choice for new drummers looking to build their kit.
What We Like:
- Designed for beginners. This cymbal is perfect for new drummers.
- Great quality. The cymbal is made of a durable stainless steel alloy. It should last a long time.
- Thickened for durability. The material is thick to prevent breaking.
- Ideal for lessons. It works well in a classroom setting.
- Includes a 20″ ride cymbal. You get everything you need.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sound quality might be basic. Experienced drummers might want a more complex sound.
The ULUOBO Ride Cymbal is a good choice for beginner drummers. It’s a durable and affordable option to start your drumming journey.
4. Zildjian 22″ S Medium Ride
Rating: 9.2/10
The Zildjian 22″ S Medium Ride cymbal is a versatile cymbal for drummers. It’s made for many music styles. This ride cymbal gives you a clean stick response. It has a strong bell sound. You can choose a smaller size for blending, or a larger one for a loud sound.
What We Like:
- This ride is an excellent choice for all kinds of music.
- You’ll get a very clear sound when you hit the cymbal with your sticks.
- The bell sound is very defined, making it easy to hear.
- It’s a great cymbal for different musical genres.
- You can choose the size that fits your drumming style.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some drummers might find it too powerful for quieter settings.
- The price could be a barrier for some.
In conclusion, the Zildjian 22″ S Medium Ride is a great cymbal. It’s a good choice for drummers who want a versatile and powerful ride.
5. Avedis Zildjian Company 20 inch I Series Ride Cymbal
Rating: 9.1/10
The Avedis Zildjian Company 20-inch I Series Ride Cymbal is ready to make some noise. This cymbal gets its name from the Turkish word “Ilham,” meaning inspiration. It is made from B8 alloy. The cymbal has thinner weights. This helps it make washier and more emotional sounds. It is made in the United States.
What We Like:
- The cymbal is made with B8 alloy.
- It produces washier sounds.
- The cymbal is made in the USA.
- It is designed for emotive playing.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific alloy may not suit all musical styles.
- Some drummers might prefer a brighter sound.
This Zildjian I Series Ride Cymbal is a good choice for drummers looking for a ride cymbal with a unique sound. It’s a great option, especially if you like a washier sound from your cymbals.
Ride Cymbals: Your Guide to the Heartbeat of the Kit
Ride cymbals are super important. They create the main rhythm and sound for your drum kit. Choosing the right one can be tricky. This guide helps you find the perfect ride cymbal.
Q: What are the main Key Features?
A: Look for these key features:
- Size: Ride cymbals come in different sizes. Bigger sizes usually sound louder and have a longer sustain. Smaller sizes are quieter and quicker.
- Weight: The weight affects the sound. Heavy cymbals are bright and loud. Thin cymbals are darker and more washy.
- Bell Size and Shape: The bell is the raised part in the middle. A bigger bell gives a stronger, more defined “ping” sound.
- Sound Character: Think about the tone you want. Do you want a bright and clear sound? Or something darker and more complex?
Important Materials: What Makes a Ride Cymbal Sing?
The material matters a lot. It greatly affects the sound and feel.
Most ride cymbals are made from:
- Bronze: This is the most common material. Different types of bronze give different sounds. B20 bronze is high-quality and sounds great. B8 bronze is more affordable.
- Brass: Brass cymbals are usually for beginners. They are bright and inexpensive.
Factors that Improve or Reduce Quality: The Sound Secrets
Several things affect how good a ride cymbal is.
Good quality features include:
- Hand Hammering: Cymbals hammered by hand usually sound better. It gives them more complex tones.
- Lathing: Lathing is the process of cutting grooves into the cymbal. The pattern affects the sound.
- Alloy Quality: High-quality bronze makes a better sound.
Things that might reduce quality:
- Machine-Made: Mass-produced cymbals might not sound as good.
- Low-Quality Alloys: Cheaper alloys can sound flat.
User Experience and Use Cases: Where Does Your Ride Fit In?
Think about how you will use the ride cymbal. This helps you choose the right one.
Here are some use cases:
- Rock: Rock drummers often use bright, loud rides.
- Jazz: Jazz drummers might prefer darker, more complex rides.
- Pop: Pop music uses a wide variety of ride cymbals.
- Practice: If you are practicing, you might want a cymbal that is not too loud.
Q: What size ride cymbal should I get?
A: Most drummers use 20-inch or 22-inch ride cymbals. Bigger cymbals are generally louder.
Q: What does “wash” mean in a ride cymbal?
A: “Wash” refers to the sustain or the length of the sound. A cymbal with a lot of wash has a long, echoing sound.
Q: What is the “ping” sound?
A: The “ping” is the clear, defined sound you get when you hit the bell or the bow of the cymbal.
Q: What is the difference between B20 and B8 bronze?
A: B20 bronze is a higher-quality alloy, usually sounding richer. B8 bronze is less expensive but still good.
Q: How do I clean my ride cymbal?
A: Use a cymbal cleaner and a soft cloth. Always follow the cleaner’s instructions.
Q: Can I use a ride cymbal for other things?
A: Yes! You can crash a ride cymbal for accents. You can also ride on the bell for a different sound.
Q: How much should I spend on a ride cymbal?
A: Prices vary greatly. You can find good cymbals at different price points. Consider your budget and skill level.
Q: How does the bell shape affect the sound?
A: A bigger bell is usually louder and more defined, while a smaller bell is quieter.
Q: What is lathing?
A: Lathing is the process of cutting grooves on the cymbal. The grooves affect the sound of the cymbal.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.