If you’re looking for an ultimate guide to finding the best ride cymbals for rock, then you’ve come to the right place. As a rock drummer, you know that the ride cymbal is an essential piece of your kit. It not only serves as a foundation for your beats but also helps in creating the ideal crash sound. However, with so many options out there, finding the perfect ride cymbal can be challenging.
Before you make a purchase, you need to consider a few factors. One of the most important factors is the sound quality of the cymbals. Remember that the perfect ride cymbal for rock should not only deliver a bright and cutting sound but also a rich sustain. Additionally, you need to consider the overall strength of the cymbal to determine if it can withstand heavy hitting and last longer. Finally, consider the size, weight, and finish of the cymbal, as these elements can affect the overall sound produced.
Are you looking for a ride cymbal that delivers a distinct sound and cuts through heavy music? Do you want to find a cymbal that is durable and can withstand intense drumming? Do you need to find a cymbal that is versatile enough to work in different playing styles? If the answer is yes, then keep on reading as we guide you through the best ride cymbals for rock. With an incredible collection of cymbals to choose from, we’ll help you find the perfect ride cymbal that matches your playing style and budget.
10 Best Ride Cymbals For Rock
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
It is ideal for drummers who play rock, metal, and fusion music. Made in Germany, with a 2-year warranty.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
This product is ideal for drummers who play rock, metal, and fusion genres and want a dark crash/ride cymbal.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
Ideal for drummers seeking a high-quality ride cymbal with dark tones and a 2-year warranty.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
This product is ideal for rock, metal, and fusion drumming and comes with a 2-year warranty.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
Ideal for drummers looking for a versatile and high-quality cymbal that produces bright bell tones and clear ride sounds.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
Ideal for professional drummers looking for a high-quality, heavy ride cymbal with a dark and bold sound. Made in Germany.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
Ideal for drummers seeking a high-quality, responsive and durable ride cymbal with a bright, shimmering sound.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
Ideal for professional drummers seeking a heavy and dark ride cymbal with a rich, cutting sound.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
The product is ideal for drummers in need of a high-quality ride cymbal with a dark tone and long-lasting durability.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
This product is ideal for drummers who prefer a warm, dark and complex sound with great stick definition.
|
|
1. German-Made Custom Cymbal Set For Rock & Metal
The Classics Custom Brilliant Double Bonus Set offers a comprehensive cymbal collection for drummers seeking a bold, powerful sound. The set includes a pair of 14" medium hihats, a 16" medium crash, an 18" medium crash, and a 20" medium ride. As an added bonus, the set includes a free 16" trash crash and a free 10" splash.
These cymbals feature a brilliant finish and fully lathed surfaces on both sides. The highly reflective finish delivers impressive shimmering cut, while the combination of lathing and buffing produces a classic, clean sound. These explosive cymbals are perfect for power players who require a driving energy at loud dynamics, making them an ideal choice for rock and metal styles.
Crafted from B10 bronze alloy, which is composed of 90% copper and 10% tin, these cymbals deliver a uniform sound with a punchy quality that cuts through dense mixes with ease. This alloy is perfect for heavier hitters who require a balanced sound with plenty of volume.
Not only do these cymbals sound great, they also look stunning. The mirror-like finish creates a sleek and stylish look that will last a lifetime of playing, traveling, and buffing. In addition, the set is made in Germany using 100% renewable energy, ensuring that they are not only high quality, but also environmentally conscious.
Please note that any typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet points or description text on the product page are a result of the site's system and are not the fault of the manufacturer or marketplace sellers. Overall, the Classics Custom Brilliant Double Bonus Set is a top-tier collection of cymbals that will impress any drummer looking for a bold, powerful sound.
2. German-Made 22" Dark Crash/ride Cymbal
The 22” Classics Custom Dark crash/ride cymbal is a versatile instrument that can be played as both a ride and crash cymbal thanks to its wide dynamic range and heavier hammering. Whether you need stick and bell definition or a swelling crash, this cymbal will deliver.
Its dark finish, achieved through a highly specialized process, gives it a shadowy tone and plenty of volume. The extra deep hammering adds complexity to its character, shaping warmth and dryness into its intense attack.
Designed for power players, Classics Custom Dark cymbals open up to deliver an energetic drive at loud dynamics, making them ideal for high octane styles like rock and metal.
The cymbal is made from B10 bronze alloy, consisting of 90% copper and 10% tin, resulting in a uniform sound that packs a punch and cuts through dense mixes easily. The natural color of the bronze shines through in the lathe marks that accent the dark finish.
Unlike other cymbals with coatings that wear off over time, the dark finish on this cymbal is a part of the manufacturing process, ensuring that it will last a lifetime of playing, traveling, and buffing for those who want their gear looking brand new.
Classics Custom Dark cymbals are made in Germany with 100% renewable energy, using a lathe formed profile, extra hammering, wide blade lathing, and a dark finish.
Please note that any typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet points or description text on this product page are a result of the site's system and are neither the fault of the manufacturer nor the marketplace sellers.
3. Meinl 22" Ride Cymbal – Classics Custom Dark – Made In Germany, 2-Year Warranty (Cc22dar)
The Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal is the ideal choice for any drummer looking for a rock or heavy metal ride cymbal that provides plenty of ping, definition, and bell that cuts through the mix. With its highly specialized finishing process, this cymbal has a dark finish that delivers shadowy tones and plenty of volume. The extra deep hammering on the cymbal adds complexity to its character, making it a must-have for any power player.
This cymbal is made from B12 Bronze Alloy, which features 88% copper and 12% tin. This uniform sound packs a punch and cuts through dense mixes easily, allowing the cymbal to open up and deliver an energetic drive at loud dynamics. Whether you're playing rock or metal, the Classics Custom Dark cymbals are a sure bet for high octane styles.
The dark finish is a part of the cymbal making process, ensuring that it will last a lifetime of playing, traveling, and buffing. The Meinl stamp and a small laser engraved logo with the text "Made in Germany" guarantee that the cymbals are made in Germany with green energy. The Meinl Cymbals Factory in Gutenstetten runs on green energy, making these cymbals an environmentally friendly choice.
4. German-Made Classics Custom Dark Cymbal Set
The Classics Custom Dark Ultimate set is a must-have collection for drummers who love to play loud and energetic music. This set includes six cymbals, namely 16” dark hi-hats, 22” dark crash/ride, 18” dark crash, 20” dark crash, 18” dark trash china, and 16” dark trash stack, which are all designed to deliver explosive sounds that cut through dense mixes.
One of the highlights of this cymbal set is its dark finish with extra hammering. This highly specialized finishing process creates shadowy tones and adds complexity to the cymbals' character by shaping warmth and dryness into their intense attack. The deep hammering also contributes to their volume and overall sound quality.
Made from B12 bronze alloy, which consists of 88% copper and 12% tin, these cymbals have a uniform sound that is easy to control through all volume levels. The B12 bronze alloy is known for its solid and reliable quality that packs a punch, making it perfect for power players who want to deliver an energetic drive at loud dynamics.
The dark finish of these cymbals is a part of the cymbal-making process, not just a coating that can wear off over time. This means that the look will last a lifetime of playing, traveling, and buffing. Additionally, this cymbal set is made in Germany with 100% renewable energy, which makes it an environmentally friendly choice for drummers who care about sustainability.
It is important to note that any typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet point or description text on this product page are a result of the site's system and are not the fault of the manufacturer or marketplace sellers.
5. Paiste Signature Reflector Cymbal Bell Ride 22-Inch
Introducing a versatile and high-quality cymbal that has been in the market for over three decades, the Proprietary Signature Bronze Alloy Cymbal. This cymbal has been crafted with precision and expertise, making it a trusted choice for countless musicians since 1989.
Made with a proprietary signature bronze alloy, this cymbal boasts exceptional durability and resilience to withstand the rigors of both live performances and recording sessions. It has been designed to produce a wide range of musical styles, from the popular genres of pop, rock, hard rock, heavy metal, funk, R&B, and country to the more avant-garde and classic styles such as big band, blues, and gospel.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, this cymbal is an excellent choice for musicians who demand a high level of performance and quality. It has a wide range of volume settings, making it versatile for any musical setting.
6. German-Made Heavy Dark Ride With Big Bell.
The 18” Classics Custom Heavy Dark big bell ride is the perfect choice for power players who need a cymbal that packs a punch. This ride features an extra large bell that dominates the sound with a heavy metal tone punctuated by a darker mosaic. The cymbal's dark finish is a result of a specialized finishing process that adds shadowy tones and plenty of volume. The extra deep hammering adds complexity to its character by shaping warmth and dryness into its intense attack.
The Classics Custom Heavy Dark cymbals have a heavier weight compared to other cymbals, giving them an added dose of power, punch and articulation. The cymbals are perfect for harder hitting players that rely on more volume from their cymbals. These explosive cymbals are designed for power players and open up to deliver an energetic drive at loud dynamics, making them a sure bet for high octane styles like rock and metal.
These cymbals are made from B10 bronze alloy, a combination of 90% copper and 10% tin. This alloy has a uniform sound that packs a punch and cuts through dense mixes easily. The natural color of the bronze comes through in the lathe marks that accent the dark finish. The dark finish is not just a coating that can wear off over time, it is a part of the cymbal making process. The look will last a lifetime of playing, traveling and buffing, making it perfect for musicians who want their gear looking brand new.
The 18” Classics Custom Heavy Dark big bell ride is made in Germany with 100% renewable energy. The cymbals are made with a lathe formed profile, extra hammering, wide blade lathing and a dark finish. The manufacturer takes pride in their use of renewable energy and ensures that their cymbals are made sustainably.
Please note that any typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet point or description text on this product page are a result of this site’s system and are neither the fault of the manufacturer nor marketplace sellers.
7. Brilliant German-Made Ride Cymbal – 2-Year Warranty!
The 20” Classics Custom Medium ride cymbal is a prime example of exceptional articulation and stunning sound quality. It boasts a diamond-like clear tone that elevates the player's voice in dense mixes, providing a sublime playing experience. This cymbal features a highly reflective brilliant finish with fully lathed surfaces on both sides, allowing for maximum shimmering cut and a classic, clean sound.
Classics Custom cymbals are perfect for power players, as they open up to deliver an explosive drive at loud dynamics, making them a reliable choice for high-octane styles like rock and metal. This cymbal is made from B12 bronze alloy, which consists of 88% copper and 12% tin, ensuring a solid, uniform sound that packs a punch and cuts through dense mixes with ease. It is also easy to control through all volume levels.
Not only does the mirror-like finish enhance the sound of the cymbal, but it also adds a stunning look to any drum kit. The finish will last a lifetime of playing, traveling, and buffing, ensuring that the cymbal maintains its brand-new appearance.
This cymbal is made in Germany using 100% renewable energy, guaranteeing that it is environmentally friendly. It is produced with a lathe-formed profile, precision hammering, mirror-smooth surface, and a brilliant finish to ensure that it meets the highest quality standards.
The manufacturer of this cymbal provides a disclaimer that any typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet points or description text on the product page are not the fault of the manufacturer or the marketplace sellers. Overall, the 20” Classics Custom Medium ride cymbal is an exceptional and reliable choice for any drummer looking for exceptional sound quality and a stunning appearance for their drum kit.
8. Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Heavy Dark 20" Ride — Made In Germany, 2-Year Warranty (Cc20hdar)
The Classics Custom Dark Ride Heavy is the perfect cymbal for those looking for a ride that delivers plenty of ping, definition and bell that cuts through the mix. Designed to cater to the classic qualities of a rock or heavy metal ride cymbal, this cymbal is a must-have for power players.
The Dark finish with extra hammering gives this cymbal a highly specialized finishing process that leaves it with shadowy tones and plenty of volume. The extra deep hammering adds complexity to its character, providing you with a unique sound that will set you apart from the rest.
These explosive cymbals are perfect for power players and open up to deliver an energetic drive at loud dynamics. They are a sure bet for high octane styles such as rock and metal, making them perfect for those who love to play with power and intensity.
Made from B12 Bronze Alloy, consisting of 88% copper and 12% tin, this cymbal has a uniform sound that packs a punch and cuts through dense mixes easily. This provides you with a sound that is consistently powerful and clear, no matter how hard you play.
The dark finish is a part of the cymbal making process, meaning that the look will last a lifetime of playing, traveling and buffing. This finish is unlike any other, giving you a unique look that is sure to catch the eye of your audience.
These cymbals are made in Germany with green energy, meaning that they feature the Meinl stamp and a small laser engraved logo with the text: Made in Germany. Our Meinl Cymbals Factory in Gutenstetten runs on green energy, making these cymbals a responsible choice for those who are environmentally conscious.
9. Meinl 20" Ride Cymbal – Classics Custom Dark – Made In Germany, 2-Year Warranty (Cc20dar)
Introducing the Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal – a premium quality instrument that delivers the classic qualities of a rock or heavy metal ride cymbal. This cymbal boasts plenty of ping, definition, and bell that cuts through the mix with ease, making it an ideal choice for drummers who demand a high level of performance from their equipment.
Crafted with a highly specialized finishing process, the Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal boasts a dark finish with extra hammering that adds complexity to its character. This unique finishing process leaves the cymbal with shadowy tones and plenty of volume, making it a standout choice for drummers who want their cymbals to stand out from the crowd.
Designed for power players, the Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal delivers an explosive sound that opens up to deliver an energetic drive at loud dynamics. This makes it the perfect choice for high octane styles like rock and metal, where a powerful and dynamic sound is essential.
Crafted from B12 Bronze Alloy, which consists of 88% copper and 12% tin, the Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal has a uniform sound that packs a punch and cuts through dense mixes with ease. This makes it an ideal choice for drummers who demand a high level of performance from their cymbals.
The dark finish of the Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal is a part of the cymbal making process, ensuring that the look will last a lifetime of playing, traveling, and buffing. Made in Germany with green energy, these cymbals feature the Meinl stamp and a small laser engraved logo with the text: Made in Germany. Our Meinl Cymbals Factory in Gutenstetten runs on green energy, making these cymbals a responsible and sustainable choice for drummers who care about the environment.
10. Istanbul Mehmet Cymbals Custom Series Rtf22 22-Inch Turk Flat Ride Cymbal
This exceptional cymbal is meticulously crafted by hand in Istanbul, Turkey – renowned for producing world-class cymbals for over 400 years. The cymbal is designed to deliver a dry, low pitched sound with minimal overtones, making it perfect for a wide range of musical genres from rock to jazz and everything in-between.
The cymbal features a unique, unlathed raw surface that clearly showcases every hammer mark, giving it a distinctive appearance and a truly artisanal feel. This also contributes to its exceptional sound quality, providing a warm, full-bodied tone that is both powerful and expressive.
Available in a range of sizes including 18", 19", 20", 21" and 22", this cymbal can be customized to suit your individual needs and preferences. It is also available with or without rivets/sizzles, allowing you to further tailor its sound to your specific playing style and requirements.
Crafted from the highest quality materials, this cymbal is built to last and deliver outstanding performance for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate amateur, this cymbal is the perfect choice for anyone looking to take their music to the next level. So why wait? Invest in this exceptional cymbal today and experience the ultimate in quality, craftsmanship and sound.
Best Ride Cymbals For Rock FAQs
Are there any ride cymbals specifically designed for heavy rock or metal?
Yes, there are ride cymbals that are specifically designed for heavy rock or metal music. These cymbals are usually larger in size, ranging from 20 inches to 24 inches, and have a bright, cutting sound. They are also thicker and heavier than other ride cymbals, which allows them to cut through the loud and heavy sound of rock and metal music. Additionally, they often feature a raw or unlathed finish, providing a more aggressive sound and allowing for greater sustain and projection. Some popular ride cymbals for heavy rock or metal include the Zildjian A Custom Ping Ride, the Sabian HHX Power Bell Ride, and the Meinl Pure Alloy Custom Dual Ride. It's important to note that the choice of cymbal ultimately comes down to personal preference and playing style, so it's recommended to try out different ride cymbals before making a purchase.
Can a ride cymbal for rock be versatile enough for other genres?
Yes, a ride cymbal for rock can certainly be versatile enough for other genres. While ride cymbals are often associated with rock music due to their ability to cut through distortion and heavy drumming, they can also be used in a variety of other genres such as jazz, blues, funk and even some forms of electronic music.
The key to using a ride cymbal for different genres is in the way it is played. For example, in jazz music, a ride cymbal is often played with a lighter touch and a more delicate technique, whereas in rock music it may be played with a heavier hand and more aggressive strokes.
Additionally, the specific type of ride cymbal can also affect its versatility. A thinner ride cymbal with a brighter sound may be better suited for jazz, while a heavier ride cymbal with a darker sound may work better in rock.
Ultimately, it comes down to the player's ability to adapt their playing style and choose the right equipment for the specific genre they are playing.
How do different materials affect the sound of a ride cymbal for rock?
The material of a ride cymbal can have a significant impact on its sound when played in a rock context. Traditionally, ride cymbals are made of bronze, which produces a bright and cutting sound that can easily cut through the mix of a loud rock band. However, different types of bronze alloys can also affect the sound. For example, B20 bronze, which is made of 80% copper and 20% tin, is a common alloy used in high-end ride cymbals and produces a bright and lively tone. On the other hand, B8 bronze, which is made of 92% copper and 8% tin, is a less expensive alloy used in entry-level cymbals and produces a more muted and darker sound.
Apart from bronze, other materials such as nickel silver, stainless steel, and titanium can also be used for ride cymbals. Nickel silver produces a bright and shimmering sound that is similar to bronze, while stainless steel creates a more focused and cutting sound. Titanium, on the other hand, produces a unique and exotic sound that is often used in experimental rock music.
Overall, the material of a ride cymbal can greatly affect its sound in a rock context, and choosing the right one depends on the desired tone and personal preference of the drummer.
How do I properly maintain and care for my ride cymbal for rock?
To properly maintain and care for your ride cymbal for rock, there are a few things you can do:
1. Clean your cymbal regularly: Use a soft cloth or cymbal cleaner to wipe the cymbal down after use. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the surface of the cymbal.
2. Avoid playing with dirty or sweaty hands: This can cause dirt and oils to build up on the surface of the cymbal, which can lead to discoloration or corrosion over time.
3. Use cymbal sleeves or covers: These can protect your ride cymbal from scratches, dents, and other damage during transport or storage.
4. Store your cymbal properly: Keep your ride cymbal in a dry, cool place, and avoid stacking or piling other cymbals on top of it.
5. Play with proper technique: Avoid hitting your ride cymbal too hard, as this can cause cracks or other damage. Instead, focus on playing with a controlled, consistent touch to get the best sound and longevity out of your cymbal.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your ride cymbal stays in great condition and sounds great for years to come.
How important is the bell sound in a ride cymbal for rock?
The bell sound in a ride cymbal is a crucial element in creating a distinctive sound in rock music. The bell produces a piercing and high-pitched sound that acts as a punctuation mark in the overall rhythm of a song. It's often used to accentuate the beat, add emphasis to specific parts of a song, and create a sense of tension and release.
In rock music, the bell sound is often used in combination with the crash sound to create a dynamic and powerful sound. The bell sound is particularly important in genres like heavy metal, where the intensity of the music requires a cymbal that can cut through the mix and be heard clearly.
Overall, the bell sound in a ride cymbal is an essential element in creating a unique and memorable sound in rock music. It adds depth and texture to the music and helps to create a sense of momentum and energy that is crucial to the genre.
What are some affordable options for a ride cymbal for rock?
If you are looking for an affordable ride cymbal for rock music, there are several options available in the market. One of the popular and affordable options is the Zildjian ZBT ride cymbal. It is made of a sheet of bronze and is suitable for beginners and intermediate drummers. Another option is the Sabian SBR ride cymbal, which is also made of brass and has a bright and focused sound suitable for rock music. The Meinl HCS ride cymbal is another affordable option with a clear and cutting sound. The Wuhan WUR20 ride cymbal is a budget-friendly option made of hand-hammered cast bronze and has a dark and complex sound that works well for rock music. Overall, there are plenty of affordable ride cymbals available in the market that can suit your preferences and budget.
What are some notable brands for ride cymbals in the rock genre?
There are several notable brands for ride cymbals in the rock genre. One of the most popular and highly regarded brands is Zildjian. They offer a wide range of ride cymbals that are used by many famous rock drummers. Some of their most popular models include the A Custom, K Custom, and K Constantinople lines. Another popular brand for ride cymbals is Sabian. They are known for their bright and cutting sound, which makes them a favorite among rock drummers. Some of their most popular ride cymbals include the AA, HH, and AAX lines. Paiste is another well-respected brand for ride cymbals in the rock genre. Their 2002 and Signature lines are particularly popular among rock drummers for their bright and powerful sound. Other notable brands for ride cymbals in the rock genre include Meinl, Istanbul Agop, and Bosphorus. Ultimately, the best ride cymbal for a rock drummer depends on personal preference and the specific sound they are looking for.
What are the key features to look for in a ride cymbal for rock?
When it comes to selecting a ride cymbal for rock music, there are a few key features that you should consider. Firstly, you want a cymbal that offers plenty of volume and projection, so it can cut through the mix in a loud rock band setting. Look for a ride cymbal that has a large diameter and a heavy weight, as this will help to produce a powerful sound.
Another important factor to consider is the sustain of the cymbal. For rock music, you want a ride cymbal that has a long sustain, as this will help to provide a wash of sound that can add to the overall texture and atmosphere of the music.
In terms of tone, you should look for a ride cymbal that has a bright and clear sound, with plenty of high-end frequencies. This will ensure that your ride cymbal can cut through the mix and be heard clearly alongside the other instruments.
Finally, consider the bell of the cymbal. You want a ride cymbal that has a large and articulate bell, as this will allow you to play clear and defined patterns that can add to the dynamics of your drumming.
What are the top ride cymbals for rock music?
When it comes to rock music, there are several ride cymbals that are popular among drummers. One of the most popular options is the Zildjian A Sweet Ride. This cymbal has a bright, clean sound that cuts through the mix and provides a clear definition. Another popular choice is the Sabian HHX Evolution Ride, which has a dark, complex sound that works well in heavier rock genres. The Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash Ride is also a popular option, with a dark, trashy sound that works well in grunge and alternative rock. Other notable ride cymbals for rock music include the Paiste 2002 Ride, the Istanbul Mehmet Radiant Ride, and the Meinl Mb20 Heavy Bell Ride. Ultimately, the best ride cymbal for rock music will depend on the individual drummer's preferences and playing style.
What is the ideal size for a ride cymbal for rock?
The ideal size for a ride cymbal for rock music is typically between 20 and 22 inches. This allows for a good balance between definition and sustain, which is important in rock music where the cymbals need to cut through the mix of other instruments. A larger ride cymbal can provide more sustain and a fuller sound, but can also be too overpowering in a rock setting. On the other hand, a smaller ride cymbal may lack the necessary sustain and projection needed for rock music. Ultimately, it is important to choose a ride cymbal that complements the rest of your drum kit and fits your personal playing style. It's always a good idea to try out different sizes and brands before making a purchase to ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs.