A crash cymbal provides a drumkit with the much-needed sharp attack frequently utilized for accentuations. Similar to hi-hat cymbals, a crash cymbal has its function within a drumkit. For instance, rock and metal drummers use crash cymbals to accentuate their beats. Sometimes even hitting two crash cymbals at once; thus, making the accent louder and deeper.
Furthermore, the utilization of crash cymbals isn’t confined within band drummers. Marching bands and orchestral percussionists utilize crash cymbals within their ensemble. For instance, orchestral percussionists utilize a beater similar to bass drum mallets, producing swollen crash sound.
In a nutshell, a crash cymbal is a vital component within a band and other musical settings. Therefore, I collected 10 of the best crash cymbals to improve your overall sound. In addition, I also designed a buyer’s guide to help you pick the cymbal that fits your needs.
The Different Things to Consider When Buying a Crash Cymbal— A Buyer’s Guide
As stated, crash cymbals are one of the must-haves, especially when building a standard or portable drumkit. However, finding the right crash cymbal for you could be a hard and confusing task, especially for beginners. For instance, even I— a drummer with 30-years of experience— still encounter problems when buying cymbals.
Therefore, to make things more convenient, I designed this buyer’s guide according to cymbal size, material, and luster. Consequently, allowing drummers to find the crash cymbal that will elevate their kit’s sound according to their preference.
Cymbal Thickness and Size
Typically, manufacturers design their crash cymbals between 14” and 18”. The said range provides drummers with a sharp, trashy, and powerful sound with minimal sustain. However, I strictly recommend beginner drummers to get a 16” crash cymbal as their first.
On the other hand, a crash cymbal’s thickness determines its pitch. A thick crash cymbal will oftentimes provide a higher pitch excellent for heavy music. Conversely, thinner cymbals deliver a lower pitch— making them excellent for jazz music.
Material
Similar to a hi-hat, crash cymbal manufacturers oftentimes utilize B20 bronze, B8 bronze, and Brass materials. A B20 Bronze cymbal utilizes 80% copper and 20% tin construction. As a result, offering users with a wide frequency range. In this light, manufacturers oftentimes incorporate B20 Bronze materials solely on their high-end cymbal line.
Furthermore, B8 Bronze materials consist of 92% copper and 8% tin. B8 alloys provide a bright and focused sound, allowing cymbals to become loud and cutting. In today’s market, B8 cymbals are suitable for drummers who want to cut within various mixes without spending a fortune.
Lastly, Brass materials deliver a bright but muffled cymbal tone. Therefore, manufacturers use them on their entry-level cymbals due to their lesser sound and durability in comparison with bronze materials. In this light, I recommend brass materials solely for beginners on a budget.
Cymbal Luster
Cymbal luster can affect the tone of crash cymbals. For instance, bright and clean cymbals oftentimes produce a crispy sound perfect for lighter music. Conversely, a cymbal with a rugged look— sometimes referred to as “raw”— provides drummers with a duller sound.
9 of the Best Crash Cymbals You Can Buy Today
Sabian SBR1811 SBR Series
Brand: Sabian
Type: Entry-level Crash Cymbal
Similar to the SBR Sabian Hi-hat, the SBR Crash utilizes brass as its main material. As a result, the cymbal delivers a decent cutting and clear tone. In addition, the SBR doesn’t lack in terms of musicality thanks to its hand-guided hammering process.
Furthermore, the SBR Crash Cymbal comes with a bright bell paired with a tight-sounding body. Therefore, allowing users to provide controlled dynamics without losing their musicality. In conclusion, I recommend the SBR Series for beginners looking for a decent crash for their live drum kit.
Specification:
- Brass material
- Hand-guided hammering
- Pinpoint lathing
- 18” crash size
- High pitch
Pros:
- Allows drummers to utilize it both as a crash and ride cymbal.
- Suitable for beginners thanks to its budget-friendly price point.
- Produces a clear and cutting tone that will surely punch through any mix.
- Delivers a controlled dynamic range, increasing the crash cymbal’s versatility.
Cons:
- Excellent as a practice crash cymbal; however, I advise against using this on live settings.
Arborea Mute Cymbal Low Volume Cymbal
Brand: Arborea
Type: Low Volume Entry-level Crash Cymbal
Being a drummer, I understand how hard it is to practice drumming, especially when you got neighbors and housemates around. Therefore, I introduce to you the Arborea Mute Cymbal, a low volume cymbal that’s budget-friendly and decent-sounding.
Firstly, the Arborea Mute Cymbal features a perforated design similar to the L80 Zildjian Hi-hat. As a result, the mute cymbal effectively lowers its volume by approximately 70%-80%— making them ear-friendly during practice sessions.
Secondly, Arborea designed the mute cymbal with 1500 perforations— significantly more than other brands. Thus, making them an effective cymbal for house practice and the like. Lastly, the Arborea low noise cymbals effectively replicate the bounce of classic cymbals, providing users with an authentic playing feel.
Specification:
- 18” crash size
- 1500 perforations
- Low-volume crash cymbal design
- Dynamic sound
- Rich and clear tone
Pros:
- The crash cymbal’s design effectively lowers its volume by approximately 70%-80%.
- Provides users with an authentic cymbal feel at a lower volume.
- In comparison with other brands, this crash cymbal is the cheapest out there.
- Suitable for quiet home practice or live unplugged sessions.
Cons:
- Based on my preference, I think the Arborea Crash Cymbal’s tone lacks quality.
Zildjian Crash Cymbal (ILH14C)
Brand: Zildjian
Type: Entry-level Crash Cymbal
The Zildjian ILH14C offers a thin B8 crash within an affordable price point. Thanks to its B8 construction, this Zildjian Crash Cymbal produces an explosive output without losing expressiveness and dynamics.
Furthermore, the Zildjian I Family Crash Cymbal underwent small-bore hammering and full-lathing. As a result, providing the cymbal with a mature wash and bright tone. In addition, the Zildjian ILH14C’s medium-thin weight allows it to maximize cymbal expression.
Specification:
- 14” crash cymbal size
- Small-bore hammering
- Fully-lathed surface
- Thin weight
- B8 Bronze material
Pros:
- Provides an explosive sound without losing much expressiveness.
- Comparatively cheaper than the SBR 18” Crash.
- Excellently cuts through a mix without drowning other instruments.
- The B8 material is a plus considering the amount you’re paying.
Cons:
- Perfect for practice, but not ideal for studio recording sessions.
Zildjian Planet Z 18″ Crash Ride Cymbal
Brand: Zildjian
Type: Entry-level Crash Cymbal
Specifically made for beginners and drummers on a budget, Planet Z’s silver-nickel material delivers ample musicality on kits! Firstly, the Planet Z Crash produces a bright tone with a short sustain. Secondly, Zildjian designed the Planet Z Crash with a cutting sound that will cut in live settings.
Lastly, the Planet Z Crash’s construction allows users to also utilize it as a ride cymbal. Thus, providing users with extreme versatility under any musical setting. Therefore, if you’re looking for a bang-for-the-buck entry-level crash cymbal, it’s worth giving the Zildjian Planet Z a shot.
Specification:
- 18” crash size
- Nickel-silver alloy material
- Crash and ride combo construction
- Focused sound
- Bright tone and short sustain
Pros:
- Suitable for beginners and drummers on a budget.
- An excellent choice for practice drumming.
- Budget-friendly price point.
- Extremely versatile sound and construction.
Cons:
- It may sound too dirty for drummers looking for a brighter sound.
Zildjian 18″ A Custom Projection Crash
Brand: Zildjian
Type: Premium-level Crash Cymbal
If you’re looking for an explosive crash that will surely cut, then you should check out the Zildjian 18” A Custom! Firstly, the Zildjian 18” A Custom features a B20 bronze material, delivering a crisp and bright sound. Consequently, making them an ideal accompaniment for loud guitars and basses.
Secondly, the utilization of cast bronze on the A Custom allows it to provide a full and rich tone. Lastly, this specific construction provides better projection and clarity while being able to withstand hard hits. Therefore, making the A Custom the perfect crash cymbal within today’s live-performing standards.
Specification:
- 18” crash cymbal size
- B20 Bronze material
- Brilliant cymbal finish
- Medium weight
- Bright and cutting sound
Pros:
- Perfect for live performances and recording.
- Provides drummers with incredible projection while retaining sound clarity.
- Offers drummers better cymbal durability thanks to its cast bronze material.
- Features premium-level specifications.
Cons:
- I wouldn’t recommend this cymbal for practice and studio use due to its extremely loud projection.
Meinl Cymbals Crash Ride Cymbal
Brand: Meinl
Type: Premium-level Crash Cymbal
Boasting a reflective finish in this list, the Meinl Byzance Brilliant Crash delivers outstanding projection and clarity. In addition, the Byzance Brilliant processes B20 bronze alloy materials under heavy hammering. Thus, providing the crash cymbal with better sustain, allowing it to cut through mixes with incredible clarity.
Moreover, Meinl designed this hi-hat with a heavyweight construction, providing darker undertones. Finally, the reflective finish of the Meinl Byzance Brilliant reduces the cymbal’s higher frequencies. Thus, allowing the cymbal’s sound to jive within the rhythm section.
Specification:
- 18” crash cymbal size
- B20 Bronze alloy material
- Reflective finish
- Heavy hammering process
- Fully-lathed surface
Pros:
- Delivers an explosive projection without losing clarity.
- Suitable for both live and recording sessions.
- The cymbal’s sound easily cuts through dense mixes.
- Extremely reactive and sensitive to every hit intensity.
Cons:
- In comparison, this crash cymbal is more expensive than the Zildjian A Custom while offering almost the same specifications.
Sabian B8X 18″ Rock Crash Cymbal
Brand: Sabian
Type: Mid-range Crash Cymbal
The Sabian B8X Crash utilizes a heavy B8 bronze alloy construction, allowing for a quick attack and incredible projection. In addition, the Sabian B8X delivers a sound perfect for live performances thanks to its cutting tone! Thus, making this crash excellent for modern music such as heavy metal and rock.
Furthermore, Sabian manufactured the B8X series using precision hammering techniques and lathing on a B8 alloy. As a result, providing the cymbals with a tight sound that can be heard within an audible range.
Specification:
- 18” crash size
- Heavy cymbal weight
- B8 Bronze material
- Lathed surface
- Precision hammering
Pros:
- The B8X’s cutting tone is ideal for live drumming settings.
- Provides users with an instantaneous attack.
- Easily cuts through mixes thanks to its loud projection.
- Ideal for drummers who want a powerful yet tonally complex cymbal.
Cons:
- Although this cymbal packs a punch, it still lacks in tone compared to higher-end cymbals.
Meinl 18″ Crash/Ride Cymbal – HCS
Brand: Meinl
Type: Entry-level Crash Cymbal
The Meinl HCS features brass materials; however, don’t underestimate this cymbal because it rules at its price point. Firstly, the Meinl HCS delivers a crisp, bright, and clean tone, allowing users to hear what they’re playing with utmost clarity. In addition, the cymbal’s MS63 brass material allows it to become durable against hard hits.
Secondly, the HCS offers a full range of sound, enabling players to keep time while sounding excellent. Lastly, the Meinl is versatile considering its price point. From its woody stick sound to its smooth wash, you can never go wrong with the Meinl HCS.
Specification:
- 18” crash cymbal size
- MS63 Brass material
- Traditional finish
- Medium cymbal weight
- Crash and Ride tone versatility
Pros:
- Provides a clear and bright sound despite its brass material.
- Features an extremely durable build.
- Excellent for both beginners and students looking for a crash cymbal to practice with.
- Made in Germany using 100% renewable energy.
Cons:
- I wouldn’t recommend this product if you’re looking to buy a crash cymbal for recording.
Paiste 2002 Classic Cymbal Crash 18-inch
Brand: Paiste
Type: Premium-level Crash Cymbal
The Paiste 2002’s CuSn8 Bronze material has developed a cult following among drumheads around the world. Often referred to as “2002 Bronze” the CuSn8 provides users with incredible performance under medium soft to extremely loud settings. Thus, making them excellent for almost all genres.
Aside from its versatility, the Paiste 2002 also provides drummers with a clear and warm cymbal sound. In addition, Paiste designed the 2002 series with an emphasis on projection and precision. Lastly, the 2002 series allows users to enjoy a classic-feeling crash cymbal perfect for modern-day music.
Specification:
- CuSn8 bronze material
- 18” crash cymbal
- Traditional finish
- Bright tone
- Warm and strong sound
Pros:
- Excellent for all types of genres.
- Extremely versatile sound.
- Provides drummers with a responsive feel.
- Can punch through dense mixes without losing its clarity.
Cons:
- Considering its price point, I would prefer if the Paiste 2002 featured B20 instead of B8 bronze material.
Frequently Asked Questions about Crash Cymbals
What is a crash cymbal used for?
Unlike hi-hats, a crash cymbal produces a sharp and loud sound called a “crash”. Typically, drummers utilize this sound for accentuations during a drum phrase. Sometimes, drummers also utilize a crash to intensify their count— oftentimes seen in heavy music.
What is the difference between a ride cymbal and a crash cymbal?
As stated, drummers oftentimes use a crash cymbal to accentuate a passage or make their clicks heavier. On the other hand, a ride cymbal produces a more gentle sound compared to the former. In addition, drummers usually utilize a ride cymbal to help them keep time. Thus, acting similarly to a hi-hat’s “chick” sound.
Can you use a ride as crash cymbal?
Even though they look identical to each other, a crash cymbal is thinner than a ride cymbal. Therefore, both cymbals will produce a different sound than the other. A crash cymbal’s thinner profile will produce a loud and sharp sound. Conversely, a ride cymbal’s thicker profile will provide a deeper “splash”.
Why is it called a crash cymbal?
Due to their thin construction, crash cymbals produce a sharp and high-pitched sound. Drummers around the world attribute this sound to a “crash” sound— which is sudden without much sustain.
Do you need two crash cymbals?
Drummers can go away with just one cymbal in their kit. However, some drummers prefer two crash cymbals of different sizes, providing them a deeper dig when accentuating a beat. Nevertheless, this boils down to preference; therefore, drummers should research carefully on what to incorporate into their kit.