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cymbals explained for making better choices


The Cymbal Mystery E x p o s e d !


Cymbals are used to express part of the drum set vocal range. The sounds they make at certain places in a song will speak to the listener. Making good choices of types and sizes is every bit as important as choosing the right drums. But this can be a time consuming process.


In order to make your search faster and smarter, check out the key information provided below.


How They're Made

To start off with, finding out how cymbals are made will quickly narrow your selection in half. WHY? Partly due to costs and partly due to sound. Here's what I'm talking about...


Two primary methods of cymbal production are used today. The differences can be found in the metal composition and what "form" the metal is in at the start of the process.


1. Casting involves pouring hot liquid metal into a form that closely resembles the final deminsions.

2. Stamping uses machines to press out the basic shape from a sheet of cold metal.


This is only the beginning of the process of course, but these two methods have the biggest influence on cost and sound.


Once the "rough" shape is made, there are several other stages a cymbal must go through before it is "complete".


The type of metal used has the greatest influnce on what tools can or can't be used for creating varied sounds. If you would like to get the full story, you can Learn About Cymbal Making Here.



The Different Types

A standard drum kit setup requires only 3 (yes THREE) cymbals. Actually you can get away with 2 (1 hi hat and 1 crash/ride). BUT our quest for a broader range in voices caused an explosion of types that has been growing over the past century. Here are the basic categories you can expect to find:


  • The Hi Hat is core to a drum set. It is used as the central time keeper for music. The hi hat is in fact a pair of cymbals matched in size, ranging from 12"-14". They rest on a specially made stand where the top can be raised an lowered with your foot to create different voices while being played. You can also open and close them in rhythmic patterns while playing on the ride or other parts of the kit.

  • A Ride Cymbal has the largest size of the group (ranging 18"-24") and is also used for keeping time. It has a a more full and opend sound than the hi hat.

  • The Crash is used for accents, rather than steady patterns. Crashes are by far the are most diverse cymbal type. They vary greatly in diameter and thickness.

  • A Splash is the smallest of the crash family. They have the same purpose but their use is different. Sizes range from 6"-12" and you can expect a lower volume that the larger crashes but the high pitch really cuts through.

  • Another member of the crash family is the China. The sond is very sharp and "trashy". You can find them ranging from 12" to 22" in size depending on the maker. Many drummers go with an 18" for a nice middle of the road sound.
  • There are several types of Effects Cymbals made for those who are always pushing their creative limits. The drum market offers oriental gongs, bells, drumbals, and an assortment of offers to spice up a song!


If you would like to find out more about each cymbal type, Go Here.


SIDE NOTE: If you are truly serious about buying the best drum kit for your needs, I highly reccomend Danny Brown's Ultimate Guide for Choosing Drums and Cymbals. DrumJunction provides a great overview of many subjects on drumming; however, with a book, Danny has been able to get into the tiny details of drums, cymbals, sound quality, and all the things you need to know before laying down your hard earned money. Check it out HERE!


cymbals companies have hi hats, and ride cymbals for keeping timeCymbal Companies

A large portion of drummers use one or more of the BIG 3 (Zildjian, Sabian, Paiste). Each of these makers use the stamping and casting methods while offering a large variety of types.


There are also many makers that are less known on the market. You can find companies that focus only on cheap entry level models while other companies that create only highest quality "hand-made" types.


To bring you up to speed on who's who in the cymbal market, the following makers are presented with company information and the models they offer:


  • Bosphorus
  • Meinl
  • UFiP
  • Stagg
  • Orion

  • And A Mixed Bag of Lesser Known Cymbal Companies


Give 'Em Some Tender Loving Care

After going through the effort of chosing a setup AND spending your hard earned money, the last thing you want is for your instruments to degrade quickly. Especially since they can last for years and years with the proper care.


There are several easy steps you can take to ensure your investments look and sound their best for a long time. So it would be a wise idea to Read About Cymbal Care Here.



hi hat




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