Crash Cymbals

Welcome to our Crash Cymbal roundup, where we’ve handpicked the best options to help you make a splash in your drumming adventures! Dive into our collection and get ready to discover the perfect cymbal for you.

The Top 9 Best Crash Cymbals

1. Stagg Premium Crash Cymbal for Intense Performances — The Stagg EX-CM19B Brilliant is a professional-quality 92% copper and 8% tin alloy crash cymbal, perfect for drummers who want to elevate their sound without spending a fortune.
2. 12" DrumIt Speedlight Crash Cymbal — Unleash your drumming potential with the 12" 3-zone Crash Cymbal from 2BOX DrumIt Speedlight, offering an authentic electronic drumming experience.
3. 19" A Custom Crash Cymbal — Brilliant Finish, Zildjian A20517 — Experience the unmistakable sound of Zildjian’s A Custom Crash Cymbals, expertly crafted for modern music with a crisp, sophisticated finish, and accompanied by the versatile ZKEY2 drum key for hassle-free tuning.
4. Portable Stainless Steel Jazz Cymbal Set for Practice — Experience the perfect blend of durability and ease with Hokarua’s 50-pack Jazz Drum Metal Crash Cymbals, delivering a premium experience for drummers on-the-go.
5. 16" Brass Alloy Crash Cymbal for Drum Set — Experience rich, melodic sounds with this stunning 16" brass alloy crash ride hi-hat cymbal, perfect for drum enthusiasts of all levels.
6. Zildjian 16" Thin Crash Cast Bronze Cymbal: Versatile and Sensitive — Revolutionize your drumming experience with Zildjian A0223 16" Thin Crash Cast Bronze Cymbal, offering a wide range of tonal colors and highly responsive to your playing style — now complete with the versatile and durable ZKEY multi-tool drum key.
7. Zildjian A20516 18" A Custom Brilliant Finish Crash Cymbal for Drumsets — Experience the legendary sound of Zildjian’s A Custom Brilliant 18" crash cymbal, handcrafted using a secret alloy and versatile drumming techniques, with a complementary multi-tool drum key for convenience and durability.
8. Paiste Formula 602 Thin Crash Cymbal — Retro Character and Sexy Design — Experience the silky-smooth and lightweight sound of the 20" Paiste Formula 602 Thin Crash Cymbal, boasting a wide range and perfectly suited for various music styles.
9. Giant Beat Box Set: 15" Hi-Hats, 18", 20", & 24" Giant Beat Thin Cymbals (Free) — Experience the ultimate cymbal set with a free 20" Giant Beat Thin ($472 value) — perfect for any level drummer!

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Reviews

Stagg Premium Crash Cymbal for Intense Performances

As a drum enthusiast, I was excited to try out the Stagg EX-CM19B Brilliant cymbal. I found it to be an excellent addition to my set, providing a rich, professional sound. The combination of 92% copper and 8% tin alloy in the B8 bronze material adds a unique character to the sound, making it stand out in a mix.

The design, originating from Europe and manufactured in China, showcases a blend of quality materials and craftsmanship. The brilliant finish on the cymbal adds an eye-catching aesthetic quality to the instrument.

However, there were a few drawbacks to using the Stagg EX-CM19B Brilliant. While the sound quality was impressive, the cymbal was slightly heavier than I had anticipated, making it a bit more challenging to play with speed and precision.

In conclusion, the Stagg EX-CM19B Brilliant is a versatile and affordable cymbal that delivers professional-grade sound for drummers. Despite the additional weight, it remains a solid choice for those looking to enhance their kit without breaking the bank.

12" DrumIt Speedlight Crash Cymbal

I recently added the 2BOX DrumIt Speedlight 12" Crash Cymbal to my electronic drum setup, and I must say, it’s been a game-changer. With its 3 zones (bow, rim, and choke), it’s given my drumming a whole new level of depth and expression. The 12-inch size adds a perfect mix of attack and decay, making it ideal for both stage and studio use.

However, it’s not all roses. I found that the sensitivity on the bow zone is a bit too high, making it difficult to control subtle nuances during a performance. Also, the lack of built-in volume control can be frustrating in some situations.

Still, despite the minor issues, the 2BOX DrumIt Speedlight is a solid choice for any electronic drummer looking to add a versatile and punchy crash cymbal to their setup.

19" A Custom Crash Cymbal — Brilliant Finish, Zildjian A20517

Experience the unique sound of Zildjian A Custom Crash Brilliant Cymbals, crafted with the same attention to detail as their classic counterparts. Made from the same secret alloy blended over 380 years ago, these cymbals boast a crisp, sophisticated sound loved by both beginners and pros worldwide.

The A Customs offer a modern take with its smooth Brilliant finish, delivering the perfect balance in brightness and warmth for any modern music setup. A high-quality drum key with a gold logo accompanies the purchase for all your drumming needs.

Portable Stainless Steel Jazz Cymbal Set for Practice

As a passionate drummer, I found the Hokarua 50 Pcs Jazz Drum Cymbal Practice Crash Cymbal to be an excellent choice for my daily practice. The cymbal’s size of 3.55x3.55x0.25cm fits perfectly in my music instrument bag, making it easy to carry around wherever I go.

The cymbal’s weight of 0.24 lb provided a balanced and comfortable feel in my hand. Made from stainless iron materials, I can confidently say that it offers a longer service time compared to some cheaply made cymbals in the market.

One unique feature of this cymbal is its Silver color, which adds a touch of elegance to my drum set. Overall, it was an excellent experience using this product, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to enhance their drumming skills.

16" Brass Alloy Crash Cymbal for Drum Set

Imagine enhancing your drum set with this stunning 16" brass alloy crash ride hi-hat cymbal. Its high-quality construction offers both durability and outstanding performance.

Not only does it emit a golden gleam, but it also produces a melodious tinkling sound when struck. This versatile cymbal is perfect for drummers of all skill levels, encouraging them to explore their wildest musical fantasies.

With its compact packaging, this cymbal is easy to transport, making it an ideal addition to any drum set.

Zildjian 16" Thin Crash Cast Bronze Cymbal: Versatile and Sensitive

Imagine being able to produce a full range of tonal colors and excel in any musical setting with a single, versatile cymbal. That’s the magic of the Zildjian A0223 16" Thin Crash Cast Bronze Cymbal. This cast bronze cymbal, with its traditional finish, has been crafted with care using Zildjian’s secret alloy forged over 380 years ago.

The cymbal is incredibly responsive, allowing you to control the sound with your own touch and style, while still maintaining enough volume for your music. And if you’re ever in need of a tool to tighten or loosen your cymbal, the ZKEY multi-tool drum key is there to help.

Yes, these cymbals have made a mark in musical history and continue to be the go-to for drummers worldwide. From beginners to pros, Zildjian’s cymbals are the answer to any of your drumming needs.

Zildjian A20516 18" A Custom Brilliant Finish Crash Cymbal for Drumsets

As a passionate drummer, I’ve been searching for the perfect set of cymbals to add to my setup. After trying out the A Custom Crash Cymbals from Zildjian, I must say they exceeded my expectations.

The Brilliant Finish gives these cymbals a unique and sophisticated sound — not too dark, not too bright. The cymbals create beautiful warm undertones, speaking very quickly and making the perfect addition to any modern music setting. The medium bell size provides the right balance of volume and sustain, making it suitable for drummers of all skill levels.

Plus, the removable drum key bit with additional tools makes the multi-tool drum key the ultimate companion for every drummer. It’s the perfect blend of quality, versatility, and innovation that I’ve been looking for — hands down, the A Custom Crash Cymbals are worth every penny.

Paiste Formula 602 Thin Crash Cymbal — Retro Character and Sexy Design

The Paiste 20" Formula 602 Thin Crash Cymbal is a lightweight, appealing addition to any drum setup. With a silvery, delicate sound, it brings a breathy and transparent quality to your playing.

Its fairly wide range and complex, dense mix can add depth to your performances, while the soft shimmering and velvety feel offers a smooth, velvet-like playing experience. A definite retro character is present, making it suitable for various musical styles within its genre.

Despite being thin and light, it still delivers a medium-loud to medium volume, providing a good level of sustain.

Giant Beat Box Set: 15" Hi-Hats, 18", 20", & 24" Giant Beat Thin Cymbals (Free)

Introducing the Paiste Giant Beat Giant Cymbal Box Set, a stunning collection of cymbals that will bring your percussion game to the next level. This set includes a 15" Giant Beat Hi-Hat, 18" Giant Beat, 20" Giant Beat, and 24" Giant Beat, each offering a unique sound that will capture the attention of listeners and fellow musicians alike.

But wait, there’s more! You’ll also receive a free 18" Giant Beat Thin, valued at $472 — quite the bonus. Though the cymbals may require more space than some players have, their traditional finish and Swiss craftsmanship make it all worth it.

With a premium bag included, the Paiste Giant Beat Box Set is the perfect investment for any cymbal enthusiast.

Buyer’s Guide

Crash cymbals are an essential part of any drum kit, providing a bright, cutting sound that helps accentuate your playing. Choosing the right crash cymbal for your needs can be a daunting task, with many different brands, materials, and sizes available. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explore the key features to consider when purchasing a crash cymbal, as well as some general advice to help you make the best decision for your musical style and budget.

Size

The size of a crash cymbal can greatly impact its sound and playability. Crash cymbals are typically available in sizes ranging from 14 to 24 inches in diameter. Larger cymbals produce a more resonant, fuller sound, while smaller models tend to be more focused and cutting. Consider your preferred playing style and the sound you want to achieve when deciding on the appropriate size.

Material

Crash cymbals can be made from a variety of materials, including brass, bronze, and even alloys containing copper, silver, or gold. Each material has its own unique sound characteristics. Brass cymbals tend to produce a brighter, more aggressive sound, while bronze models offer a darker, more mellow tone. Alloy cymbals often strike a balance between the two, providing a versatile range of sounds. Your choice of material will depend on the specific sound you’re looking for and your budget.

Weight

The weight of a crash cymbal is another important consideration. Heavier cymbals generally produce a more powerful, resonant sound, while lighter models offer a quicker, more responsive play. If you prefer a fast, snappy response, look for lighter cymbals. However, if you’re after a more substantial, powerful sound, you may want to opt for a heavier model.

Budget

Crash cymbals can vary widely in price, depending on factors such as size, material, and brand reputation. Before making a purchase, it’s essential to establish a budget and look for cymbals that offer the best value for your money. While higher-end models may offer superior sound quality and durability, there are plenty of affordable options available that can deliver excellent results for beginning drummers or those on a tight budget.

FAQ

What is a Crash Cymbal?

A crash cymbal is a type of cymbal used in percussion instruments, particularly in drum kits. It is known for producing a loud, bright, and intense sound, making it ideal for emphasizing beats or marking the end of a musical phrase. Crash cymbals typically have a larger diameter than other cymbals, resulting in a lower pitch and a more resonant sound.

The crash cymbal gained popularity in the mid-20th century, as its distinctive sound became a cornerstone of various musical genres, including jazz, rock, and classical music. Today, crash cymbals come in various materials, thicknesses, and sizes, catering to different playing styles and preferences.

What are the different types of Crash Cymbals?

There are several types of crash cymbals, each with its unique properties and sound characteristics. The most common types include B20, B24, B62, and Projection cymbals. B20 and B24 cymbals are made with bronze alloys, with B20 featuring a higher copper content, resulting in a warmer and darker sound. B62 cymbals are made of aluminum alloy and produce a bright and cutting sound. Projection cymbals are designed to project sound more efficiently than other crash cymbals.

Additionally, crash cymbals may be categorized by their size, with the most popular sizes being 14, 16, and 18 inches in diameter. Smaller cymbals tend to produce higher pitches, while larger cymbals generate lower pitches and a more resonant sound. It is essential to choose the appropriate size and type of crash cymbal based on your playing style and the desired sound for the music you are performing.

What is the difference between a Crash and a Ride Cymbal?

The primary difference between a crash cymbal and a ride cymbal lies in their function and sound characteristics. A crash cymbal is designed to produce a loud, abrupt, and intense sound, making it ideal for accentuating beats or marking the end of a musical phrase. It is usually played with a stick or mallet, striking the center of the cymbal with force to create a sharp crash sound.

On the other hand, a ride cymbal is played using a stick or mallet and is struck on its edge or near the bell, producing a more shimmering and sustained sound. Ride cymbals are typically used to maintain a consistent rhythm, as they provide a steady and controlled sound that blends well with other instruments. In summary, a crash cymbal is a one-time, bursting sound, while a ride cymbal is a continuous, sustained sound.

What is the best way to care for a Crash Cymbal?

Proper care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and performance of a crash cymbal. Some key tips for caring for your crash cymbal include:

1. Cleaning it with a soft, dry cloth after every use to remove any dust or debris, 2) Avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, or moisture, as these can weaken the cymbal or cause rust, and 3) Using a cymbal case or bag to protect the cymbal when not in use or during transportation.

Additionally, it is crucial to inspect your crash cymbal regularly for any signs of wear, damage, or cracks. If you notice any issues, consult with a professional repair technician to address the problem before it worsens. By following these care guidelines, you can help maintain the sound quality and performance of your crash cymbal over time.

What are the best brands for Crash Cymbals?

Several reputable brands manufacture high-quality crash cymbals, each offering its unique sound characteristics and features. Some of the most popular and trusted brands include Zildjian, Paiste, Sabian, and Meinl. Each of these brands caters to different preferences and playing styles, with their offerings ranging from traditional cymbals with strong resonance to more modern cymbals with a bright and cutting sound.

When choosing a brand for your crash cymbal, consider factors such as the sound characteristics, durability, and personal preference. It is also important to try out the cymbals in person, if possible, to determine which one suits your playing style best. Many music stores offer in-store trials, allowing you to test various brands and models before making a purchase.

How much does a Crash Cymbal cost?

The cost of a crash cymbal can vary significantly based on several factors, including the brand, material, size, and sound characteristics. Generally, entry-level crash cymbals can be found in the $50-$100 range, while more advanced and high-quality cymbals can cost $200 or more. Some of the most expensive crash cymbals can even exceed $1,000.

When considering the cost of a crash cymbal, it is essential to find a balance between affordability and quality. While it may be tempting to opt for a less expensive option, investing in a high-quality cymbal can result in better sound quality and durability over time. Additionally, consider the value of the cymbal in relation to its intended use and the level of experience of the player. In some cases, a more budget-friendly option may be suitable for a beginner or a hobbyist, while a more professional-grade cymbal may be necessary for a seasoned musician or a live performance setting.

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