Do you ever listen to your favorite drummer and wonder how they get that perfect shimmering sound from their ride cymbal? Choosing the right ride cymbal can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different sounds, sizes, and weights, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want a cymbal that makes your drumming shine, but picking the wrong one can leave you frustrated and your sound a little… flat.
Finding that magical ride cymbal is key to unlocking a whole new level of expression in your drumming. It’s the voice that sings out during those driving rock beats, the subtle wash that supports a gentle jazz ballad, and the crisp ping that cuts through the mix. This post is here to cut through the confusion and help you understand what makes a ride cymbal sing.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clearer idea of what to listen for and how to match a ride cymbal to your unique drumming style. We’ll break down the essential elements that shape a cymbal’s sound, so you can confidently make a choice that will inspire your playing for years to come.
Our Top 5 Ride Cymbal Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Ride Cymbal Detailed Reviews
1. Meinl 20″ Ride Cymbal – HCS Traditional Finish Brass for Drum Set
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to upgrade your drumming sound? The Meinl 20″ Ride Cymbal – HCS Traditional Finish Brass is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to move beyond basic starter cymbals. Made in Germany, this cymbal offers a significant step up in quality and tone, making your drumming sound more professional and enjoyable. It’s built to last, giving you confidence to play your best.
What We Like:
- Makes your drums sound much better, like the music you hear.
- Feels strong and won’t easily dent or bend.
- Has a clear “ping” sound and a nice, clear bell.
- Sounds bright and crisp thanks to its special brass.
- Looks great with a shiny surface and nice logo.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- For absolute beginners, the price might be a bit higher than the most basic options.
This Meinl HCS ride cymbal is a smart investment for any drummer wanting to improve their sound. It’s a durable, great-sounding cymbal that will keep up with your playing for years to come.
2. Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Ride Cymbal (ZP20R)
Rating: 9.4/10
The Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Ride Cymbal (ZP20R) is a fantastic choice for drummers just starting out or those looking to upgrade their sound without breaking the bank. Redesigned for 2020, this cymbal proudly made in the USA brings you into the legendary Zildjian family.
What We Like:
- Great for beginners and intermediate players.
- Made in the USA from durable brass.
- Offers bright, cutting tones that stand out.
- Provides good control and a focused sound.
- Excellent sound quality for its affordable price.
- The 20-inch size is versatile for many music styles.
- Its heavy weight gives clear stick definition.
- It cuts through the mix easily, making your drumming heard.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a brass cymbal, its tone might not be as complex as bronze cymbals.
- For very advanced players, the sustain and wash might be less nuanced.
The Planet Z Ride Cymbal is a winner for anyone wanting a reliable and bright-sounding ride cymbal. It’s an accessible way to experience Zildjian quality.
3. ULUOBO Ride Cymbal
Rating: 8.7/10
The ULUOBO Ride Cymbal, 20 inches (Gold) is a fantastic choice for anyone just starting out with drumming. It’s a 20-inch ride cymbal, which is a good size for learning. The gold color looks pretty cool too!
What We Like:
- This cymbal is made just for beginners. It’s a new kind of practice cymbal that’s perfect for students.
- It’s built really well. Musicians use strong stainless steel that keeps its sound and can handle drumsticks.
- The stainless steel is made thicker. This makes it last longer and less likely to break.
- It’s a great affordable option for schools. Teachers can use it to get their students started with drum sets.
- The pack comes with one 20-inch ride cymbal.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for beginners, experienced drummers might want a cymbal with more complex tones.
- The gold finish might scratch over time with heavy use.
This ULUOBO Ride Cymbal is a solid, budget-friendly option for new drummers. It provides a good learning experience without breaking the bank.
4. Seteol 20 inch Low Volume Cymbal Golden Mute Cymbal Ride Cymbal Drum Quite Alloy Cymbal for Kids Adult Practice Traditional Finish Brass for Drum Hardware Cymbal Pack (20″ Ride Cymbal)
Rating: 8.6/10
The Seteol 20 inch Low Volume Cymbal is a fantastic choice for drummers of all ages. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a way to practice quietly, this cymbal delivers. It’s made from a strong alloy that can handle lots of playing. Plus, its special design helps it sound great without being too loud.
What We Like:
- It’s made from premium alloy, which means it’s built to last and sounds good.
- The cymbal has a bright and clear sound, perfect for many music styles.
- You can practice almost anywhere because it’s a low volume cymbal.
- It’s thick and durable, so it won’t wear out quickly.
- A 30-day warranty is included for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s low volume, it might still be too loud for some very sensitive environments.
- The “traditional finish brass” description could be more specific about the exact alloy composition.
Overall, this Seteol cymbal is a solid investment for any drummer wanting to improve their skills quietly and effectively. It offers good sound quality and durability for its price point.
5. Professional 16″ 0.7mm Copper Alloy Ride Cymbal for Drum Set Golden
Rating: 9.5/10
Drummers, get ready to make some noise with the Professional 16″ 0.7mm Copper Alloy Ride Cymbal in a stunning Golden finish! This cymbal is designed to bring a powerful and clear sound to your drum set. Its bright, shimmering tone will cut through any mix, making it a fantastic addition for any serious musician. Whether you’re hitting the stage or practicing at home, this cymbal promises to deliver. It’s built tough, so it can handle all the energy you put into your playing. Plus, its golden color adds a really cool look to your entire kit.
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What We Like:
- The 16″ size and 0.7mm thickness create a loud and powerful sound that really projects.
- It’s made from durable copper alloy, so it’s built to last through many performances and practice sessions.
- This cymbal is super versatile and sounds great in rock, jazz, metal, and many other music styles.
- The beautiful golden color gives your drum set an extra touch of style and class.
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What Could Be Improved:
- The description only mentions a 16″ cymbal, but the features list also includes an 18″ crash cymbal. It would be clearer if the product description specified if it’s a single 16″ cymbal or a set.
- While it’s described as suitable for various genres, a beginner might want more specific guidance on how its sound fits into each style.
This Golden Ride Cymbal is a solid choice for drummers looking for a cymbal that sounds great and looks even better. It’s a cymbal that will help you express your musical creativity.
Choosing Your Perfect Ride Cymbal: A Drummer’s Guide
A ride cymbal is a drummer’s best friend. It’s the cymbal you use for steady beats, rhythmic patterns, and those big, crashing accents. Finding the right one makes a huge difference in your sound. This guide will help you pick the perfect ride cymbal.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a ride cymbal, keep these things in mind:
Size Matters
- Diameter: Ride cymbals come in different sizes, usually from 18 inches to 24 inches.
- Smaller rides (18-20 inches) are brighter and have a quicker sound. They are good for quieter music or when you need a clear, defined ping.
- Larger rides (21-24 inches) are darker and have a longer sustain. They offer a bigger, washier sound, which works well for rock, jazz, and louder styles.
Weight and Thickness
- Thin: These cymbals are very responsive. They have a lot of wash and a softer stick sound. They’re great for jazz and lighter playing.
- Medium: This is a good all-around choice. It balances stick definition with a nice wash. Most drummers find medium rides versatile.
- Heavy: These cymbals are loud and bright. They have a very clear, pingy stick sound with less wash. They are perfect for rock and situations where you need to cut through loud music.
Bell Size and Shape
- The bell is the raised part in the middle. A bigger, flatter bell usually gives a louder, more cutting sound. A smaller, more domed bell can be warmer and less intrusive.
Bow Shape and Profile
- The bow is the main surface of the cymbal. Some cymbals have a more gradual curve, while others are more tapered. This affects the cymbal’s overall tone and how it responds to your stick.
2. Important Materials
Cymbals are mostly made from bronze alloys. The type of bronze used greatly affects the sound.
- B20 Bronze: This is a mix of 80% copper and 20% tin. It’s known for its rich, complex, and warm sound. B20 is often used for professional-level cymbals. It has a beautiful shimmer and sustain.
- B8 Bronze: This alloy is 92% copper and 8% tin. B8 cymbals tend to be brighter, more cutting, and less expensive than B20. They are often favored by rock and pop drummers for their power and clarity.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
High-quality ride cymbals are made with care and attention.
- Hand-Hammering: Many professional cymbals are hand-hammered. This process creates small, irregular dents on the cymbal’s surface. These dents help shape the sound, giving it more complexity, sustain, and character.
- Lathing: This is the process of shaving the bronze to create grooves on the cymbal’s surface. The depth and pattern of lathing affect the cymbal’s tone. Smooth, unlathed cymbals often sound darker and drier.
- Manufacturing Consistency: Reputable brands ensure their cymbals are made consistently. This means each cymbal of the same model sounds very similar. Cheaper cymbals might have more variation in sound.
- Heat Treatment: Some manufacturers use heat treatment to change the bronze’s properties, which can affect sustain and tone.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
The best ride cymbal for you depends on the music you play and your personal style.
- Jazz Drummers: Often prefer thinner, smaller, B20 cymbals. These cymbals offer a dark, complex wash with a subtle stick definition. They blend well with acoustic instruments.
- Rock and Pop Drummers: Usually choose medium to heavy, larger rides, often made from B8 or B20 bronze. They need a cymbal that can cut through loud guitars and provide a clear, powerful ping.
- Fusion and Funk Drummers: Might look for a versatile medium-weight ride. They need a cymbal with good stick definition for intricate patterns, but also a wash for accents.
- Beginner Drummers: A good medium-weight B8 or a budget-friendly B20 cymbal can be a great starting point. They offer a balanced sound that works for many styles.
Experimenting with different cymbals is key. Visit a music store and try them out! Your ears will tell you which one is the perfect fit.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Ride Cymbals
Q1: What is the most important feature of a ride cymbal?
A: The most important feature is its sound and how it fits the music you play. Size, weight, and material all contribute to the sound.
Q2: Are expensive ride cymbals always better?
A: Often, yes. More expensive cymbals are usually made with better materials and more careful craftsmanship, leading to a richer sound. However, there are great budget options too.
Q3: What’s the difference between a ride cymbal and a crash cymbal?
A: A ride cymbal is for steady rhythmic patterns. A crash cymbal is for loud, accent sounds. Rides are usually larger and have a more defined stick sound.
Q4: Can I use a crash cymbal as a ride cymbal?
A: You can, but it’s not ideal. Crash cymbals are designed to be hit hard for accents. They don’t have the clear ping or sustain needed for riding.
Q5: How do I clean my ride cymbal?
A: You can use a cymbal cleaner and a soft cloth. Gently wipe the cymbal. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Q6: What does “wash” mean on a cymbal?
A: Wash refers to the sustained, shimmering sound that comes from a cymbal after you hit it. A lot of wash means a long, complex sustain.
Q7: Is B20 bronze better than B8 bronze?
A: It’s not about “better,” but different. B20 has a warmer, more complex sound. B8 is brighter and more cutting. Your music style decides which is best.
Q8: How does the bell shape affect the sound?
A: A larger, flatter bell typically makes a louder, more piercing sound. A smaller, more rounded bell usually produces a warmer, less intrusive tone.
Q9: What is “stick definition”?
A: Stick definition is how clearly you can hear the individual hit of your drumstick on the cymbal, separate from the wash.
Q10: How can I find the best ride cymbal for my drumming?
A: Listen to different types of ride cymbals. Try them out if you can. Think about the music genres you play most often.
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.