Cymbal info

Types of cymbals

Chinese: Chinese cymbals feature an upturned edge that gives these models a raw, Oriental sound. They are played for 'effect', offering dirty ride sounds on short, dirty punches when played for accents.

Crash: Ranging from 12" to 20". Crash cymbals are designed for accenting or 'crashing'. Thinner models are more 'explosive', heavier models more direct and powerful.

Crash Ride: These are medium-thin cymbals, available in sizes 18 and 20 inches in diameter. They are suitable for both crash work as well as sustained ride cymbal playing.

Flat Ride cymbals have no bell and generate a clean and precise ride articulation with a shimmering yet defined sound. They are best utilized in a jazz setting, when a clear sound is desired. (i.e. piano trios, vocalists, jazz guitar, etc.)

Hi-Hats: Ranging from 10” to 15” (14” is most popular). A pairing of two cymbals on a pedal-operated hi-hat stand. Close the cymbals for playing tighter, more definite sounds; open for bigger, louder sounds; or alternate open and closed to play interesting patterns.

Ride: Ranging from 18" to 24" (20" is most popular). The ride is the main cymbal for playing rhythms and grooves. Play the bell area for bright, crisp notes or across the bow for bigger sounds. Heavier models produce more definite sounds.

Sizzle: 18 to 22 inches in diameter, in which holes are drilled and rivets are installed to give a sizzling or buzzing type of cymbal sound.

Splash: Ranging from 6" to 12". Splash cymbals are played for fast, 'splashy' accents of short duration.

Swish: Usually 18 to 22 inches in diameter, with an almost inverted profile. Swish cymbals normally have rivets installed to give a Chinese tonal effect and are especially useful in playing Big Band arrangements.