Cymbals
Cymbals are as vital to a drummer as the
percussionists each have their own tastes in cymbal brands, sizes, and sounds. This leaves beginners stuck in a seemingly impossible situation, as the options buyers have to sort through are countless. Here's how to get started.
The Bare Essentials
Other Options
Cymbal Buying Strategies
The most common approach beginners take is to buy a matched set of cymbals, meaning that all of the pieces are made by the same manufacturer and from the same line. Most new
beginners tend to gravitate towards starter packs, which range anywhere between $220 to $2200. However, after developing a unique taste, drummers tend to mix and match. Ignoring brand names and loyalties gives you a better opportunity to find an instrument that fits your style. Some brands tend to be more expensive than others, so purchasing an unmatched set has the potential to save you a considerable amount of money. Keep in mind that the best way to find cymbals that suit you is by going out and trying a handful of them out for yourself!
Materials
In a nutshell, all cymbals are made of
bronze, which is a combination of tin and copper that is mixed in a cast. When the mixture hardens, the cymbal is hammered into its final shape. The cup (or bell) is then added, and the entire thing is spun on a lathe to make it perfectly round.
''That explains why no two are alike, but why are some more expensive than others if they're all made of the same material?''
To provide players with a cheaper alternative, most manufacturers have lines made of
B8 line.
Major Manufacturers
Here's a list of some of the most popular cymbal manufacturers.
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Bosphorus
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Istanbul
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Meinl
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Paiste
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Sabian
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UFIP
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Zildjian
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Eagletone
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Turkish
Related Guides
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Cymbal Accessories
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Cymbal Stands
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Drum Sets
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Drums and Percussion
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Portable Drum Sets
