Cymbal Types Explained: Understanding Your Options

Cymbal types explained provides understanding of different cymbal categories and their musical functions. Each cymbal type serves specific purposes within drum kit playing. Understanding these distinctions enables choosing appropriate cymbals for specific musical applications.

Hi-Hat Cymbals

Hi-hats consist of two cymbals mounted on a stand, operated by foot pedal. They provide the primary timekeeping rhythm in most popular music.

The closed hi-hat sound—both cymbals pressed together—provides tight, defined rhythm. The open sound—cymbals separated—creates sustained wash.

Hi-hat sizes typically range from 13” to 15”. Larger sizes produce fuller sound; smaller sizes produce tighter, more defined sound.

Weight combinations affect character. Heavy bottom cymbals with medium tops produce crisp sound; matched weights produce different characteristics.

Hi-hat selection significantly affects overall kit character. Bright hi-hats (Zildjian New Beats) versus dark hi-hats (Zildjian K) create dramatically different sounds.

Crash Cymbals

Crash cymbals provide accents marking musical phrases, transitions, and emphatic moments. The explosive impact of a crash cymbal punctuates drum parts.

Sizes typically range from 14” to 20”. Smaller crashes respond faster with higher pitch; larger crashes provide fuller sound with more sustain.

Weight affects response and sustain. Thin crashes respond easily with quick decay; medium and heavy crashes require more force but sustain longer.

Multiple crashes provide tonal variety. A quick, bright crash complements a fuller, darker crash for different musical moments.

Ride Cymbals

Ride cymbals handle continuous playing patterns—the steady rhythm that drives songs forward. The ride occupies a similar role to hi-hats but with different character.

The bow (main surface) produces the primary riding sound. Different rides offer more defined “ping” or more “washy” sustain.

The bell provides a clear, cutting sound for accent patterns. Bell character varies significantly between ride designs.

Sizes typically range from 20” to 24”. Larger rides provide more volume and wash; smaller rides offer quicker response and definition.

China Cymbals

China cymbals produce a harsh, trashy sound distinct from crashes. The upturned edge creates the characteristic aggressive tone.

Sizes range from small (8”) effects to larger (20”+) primary chinas. Small chinas provide quick accent; large chinas produce powerful explosive sound.

The sound suits aggressive music styles. Metal, punk, and similar genres feature china cymbals prominently.

Mounting typically inverts the cymbal (bell down) on the stand. This positioning enables proper playing angle.

Splash Cymbals

Splash cymbals are small (6”-12”) cymbals providing quick, short accents. The fast response and brief sustain suit punctuation rather than sustained sound.

The sound “splashes” briefly and decays quickly. This characteristic makes splashes useful for specific moments rather than continuous playing.

Multiple splashes in varied sizes provide different pitches and characters for varied accents.

Effects Cymbals

Effects cymbals include any specialized design beyond standard categories. Stacks, O-zones, trashformers, and similar designs serve specific sound purposes.

Stacks combine two cymbals (often a china and splash) for unique trashy sounds. The combination creates character neither cymbal offers alone.

Perforated cymbals (O-zones, etc.) produce dry, focused sounds with reduced sustain. Holes in the cymbal affect resonance dramatically.

These cymbals suit specific moments rather than primary timekeeping. Their distinctive sounds should be used purposefully.

Specialty Cymbals

Flat rides lack the bell found on conventional rides. The uniform surface produces consistent sound across the cymbal face.

Swish and pang cymbals combine ride and china characteristics. The riveted versions add sustained sizzle.

Mini chinas and other hybrid designs blur traditional categories. These serve specific sonic goals beyond conventional options.

Matching Cymbals to Context

Acoustic music benefits from responsive, musical cymbals that articulate dynamics. Lighter, more complex cymbals suit these applications.

Amplified music requires projection and cut. Heavier, brighter cymbals suit these applications.

Recording may prefer different cymbals than live performance. The close-mic capture reveals characteristics that venue acoustics mask.

Building a Cymbal Arsenal

Start with essential types—hi-hats, crash, ride. These cover basic requirements.

Add variety gradually—additional crashes, effects cymbals, secondary rides. Each addition expands sonic palette.

Consider the musical context each cymbal will serve. Match cymbal character to intended applications.