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Cymbals

Cymbals are an essential part of a drum-kit and incredibly important in defining your sound. That's why most drummers take great care in choosing good-quality cymbals that suit their needs and style. At the PMT Online drum shop, you can find all the best cymbals by Zildjian, Sabian and other brands, sold individually or in packs.

WHAT ARE THE BEST DRUM CYMBALS?

Finding the perfect combination of cymbals is an art, and most drummers will only reach their best cymbal setup after some trial and error! That's why for drummers on a budget, getting a cymbal pack can be the best route, while beginners may also opt for more affordable brands such as Stagg, who make good quality cymbals at cheap prices - a good way to experiment with different types without spending too much money!

CYMBALS TYPES: RIDE, CRASH, HI-HATS, CHINA, SPLASH

There are different types of cymbals such as, ride, crash, hi-hats, china and splash, and most drummers will use a combination of some or all of them. Each one sounds different and may suit different songs at different moments, too. Cymbals will give your drum kit its own identity, and the choice you make can go along way to defining your sound. The hi-hat along with the snare drum are arguably the most heard part of any drum kit during a performance, and along with the bass drum, hi-hats are played with the feet.

Made using many different types of metal alloy including brass, bronze and nickel, each cymbal offers its own tone and character. The thickness impacts the sound greatly: Metal and Rock drummers tend to opt for a thick heavy type whilst a thinner one suits Jazz and other contemporary styles.

BUY NEW CYMBALS IN-STORE

At each PMT House of Drums drum shop, spread across the UK, we have hundreds of cymbal models in stock, all ready to demo before you buy. We are authorized dealers for all the best brands such as Sabian, Zildjian, PA Meinl, and Paiste, so you are sure to find great cymbals perfect for you!

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What are the different types of cymbals and their uses?

There are several types of cymbals, each serving different purposes in a drum kit. Hi-hats consist of two cymbals mounted on a stand and are used for keeping time and creating rhythmic patterns. Ride cymbals provide a steady, sustained sound used primarily for keeping rhythm. Crash cymbals deliver a loud, explosive sound typically used for accents and dramatic effects. Other types include splash cymbals for quick, sharp accents, and china cymbals for a trashy, exotic sound. Each type has its own unique characteristics, suited to various musical styles and functions.

How do I choose the right cymbals for my playing style?

Choosing the right cymbals depends on your playing style and the genre of music you play. For rock and metal, thicker and larger cymbals like heavy crashes and rides are ideal for their durability and volume. Jazz and fusion drummers often prefer thinner, more responsive cymbals like dark rides and light crashes for their complexity and subtlety. Consider trying out different cymbals in a music store to see how they respond to your playing and match your desired sound. 

How should I maintain and clean my cymbals?

To maintain and clean your cymbals, regularly wipe them down with a soft, dry cloth to remove fingerprints and dust. For deeper cleaning, use a cymbal cleaner specifically designed for bronze or brass cymbals, applying it gently with a cloth and following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid using abrasive materials or household cleaners, as they can damage the finish and sound quality. Additionally, store your cymbals in a protective case when not in use and handle them by the edges to minimise contact with the playing surface.