After playing drums for several years I had the chance to test different types of cymbals, both good and bad, big and small, pricey and cheap.
One thing is undeniable: selecting the best quality cymbals delivers better sound output. Compared to just relying in your groove or drum set alone.
Today we’ll be exploring some of the best affordable cymbal packs available to unique sounds from the more high end packs.
So, get ready for the cherry on top. Here are my top picks for The Best Cymbal Packs!
If you’re looking for world class cymbals with an expert touch from a seasoned musician then look no further than the Meinl Mike Johnston Byzance set.
Meticulously crafted with Swiss watch precision combined with the passion and excellence of a world renown drummer like Mike Johnston. These cymbals deliver nothing short of mastery in sound.
Included in this pack is a:
The Meinl Mike Johnston Byzance Set has won me over, no question. Yes, they’re a bit pricey, but trust me, they’re worth every penny. They’ve got a sound that’s both sophisticated and versatile.
Add up their durability (they handle what ever you throw at them) and you got a winning pack right here. There’s no doubt adding these cymbals to your drum kit will make your drumming stand out!
As someone who has tried multiple cymbals throughout my time as a drummer, I will say this: Paiste Signature Classics Cymbals easily stand out among the best!
To begin with they’re constructed of unique proprietary Signature Bronze material which allows them to produce a warm sound that is unmatched by any other brand out there.
The set comes with:
Moreover, these cymbals are truly resilient throughout long periods of usage without resulting in any significant wear or harm.
Overall, it is without a doubt that the Paiste Signature Classic Cymbal Set should be considered for anyone looking to invest in a reliable, stylish and performance-driven cymbals. Although they come with a higher price tag than other option from this roundup, this set will exceed all your expectations.
For more on Cymbals for Rock check my guide right here.
Now onto the next pack!
Looking for a high-grade cymbal pack? Look no further than the Zildjian K Sweet Cymbal Set– it’s exquisite and will leave you feeling satisfied just as though you had a piece of your favorite dessert!
This kit consists of a:
These cymbals brag incredible durability as they happen to be constructed using Zildjian’s K alloy that adds more layers of strength.
Yes, the Zildjian K Cymbal Set may be slightly expensive but it sure does pack in value- each piece delivering rich and flexible sounds that adapt perfectly to different music genre styles while also having enduring quality capabilities.
Let’s follow up with a set that is a classic from Sabian, the Sabian AAX Promotional Cymbal Set. It goes without saying, within the drumming community, Sabian holds a firm prestige.
The set itself includes:
The Sabian AAX set shows exceptional resilience thanks to the B20 alloy they where bulit with. To summarize,this set is a very good an investment for those not looking to compromise on quality while still keeping mindful on their budget.
One of the most renowned drumming sets out there is the Zildjian A Cymbal Set. As someone who’s played these cymbals for countless hours, I can vouch to their lasting legacy and superb sound quality.
This set includes:
The toughness of Zildjian A series cymbals is undeniable when it comes to durability. They are made from Zildjian’s exclusive alloy and they’ve resisted some heavy playing on my end without any issues.
Investing in this timeless set will never go out of style as it offers bright sound quality perfect for most genres.
In summary, I covered why many consider the Zildjian A Cymbal Set as a classic choice for drummers like myself who value craftsmanship that has passed the test of time. There’s no doubt this pack has gained its fair share of admirers over the years.
Let’s move forward with this roundup, here comes Sabian again. The impressive Sabian HHX Performance Cymbal Set a truly drummer’s dream!
This fantastic pack contains four remarkable cymbals:
Sabian cymbals are built with B20 alloy materials making them extremely durable even with constant use during rehearsals, gigs or intense drumming sessions. These cymbals will retain their quality without signs of wear through the years.
Despite its relatively higher price point compared to other sets on the market, the expressive possibilities that offers are worth every penny.
The following set is with out a doubt one of a kind, the Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Dark Set!
This pack delivers complexity, dark richness and great overtones that add depth and dimension to your drumming.
The Cymbal pack contains:
In terms of durability, they are made from Meinl’s B10 bronze alloy which gives them great strentgh. You will definetly have cymbals for years to come.
After testing these cymbals with my kit, it’s been nothing but a geniune surprise! The Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Dark Set is an outstanding unique set with great sound profile at a fair price.
Attention drummers on a budget! I have an exciting product to share with you, the Zildjian S Series Performer Cymbal Set. This set is a wonderful choice for those seeking a balanced mix of quality and affordability.
The set includes:
Despite regular gigs and extensive practice sessions the set hold up great, I’m confident this set is reliable in terms of durability.
While they may not have the traditional elegance of a Zildjian K or the finish of Sweet line. These S Series cymbals are still a fantastic option at such a reasonable price. They deliver a balanced sound making them ideal as an affordable option.
Last but certainly not least, and absolut must for a cymbal pack round up, the Zildjian A Custom Cymbal Set. If we covered some mythical sets this set indeed has earned its place as an indisputable legend.
The cymbal pack includes:
On top of everything that they offer sound wise. These beauties are built like a tank using a potent alloy known as Zildjian’s signature A-Zidljian alloy making them versatile enough for any genre.
No matter if you are looking to make your first steps into drumming or looking to enhance the sound of your current setup, it can be overwhelming filtering through the numerous cymbal pack options.
Focus on these key areas that will help you decide and make a confident decision.
Take into account these points that will increase your chances of making an informed decision before purchasing.
Selecting the right cymbal pack is crucial for your drumming journey. Here are some tips to help you:
When considering cymbals for your drumming setup, it’s important to keep in mind how much of an effect metal alloys can have on their sound qualities and a their overall longevity.
Keep in mind that choosing the right cymbals can significantly impact your drumming experience, good or bad! Consider all your options with care as it might make a world of difference finding a pack of cymbals just perfect for your style!
Alright, here’s my take. A good cymbal pack needs to sound great, it can resist beatings of long rehersals and give you the best bang for your buck.
In my experience? Yes, they are. High-end cymbals are made with better materials and better craftsmanship. They generally sound better.
But, remember, it’s not just about the price tag. You’ve got to find a balance that suits your budget and your drumming needs.
Good question! As we saw in the different alloy section, B8 cymbals are built with 8% tin and 92% copper that produce a bright, cutting sound. ThiS is perfect for those rock enthusiasts or pop hits.
B20 cymbals are made with 20% tin and 80% copper, this cymbals are darker, more complex. Making them great for jazz and blues.
Well, it depends. How often you play? How hard you play? How well you take care of your cymbals? All these things matter but a good-quality cymbal pack can keep on singing for several years if you use them correctly.
Cymbals are arguably more important than the drums when it comes to quality. You can make a cheap drum kit sound good with proper tuning and some muffling techniques. There’s no way to make a bad cymbal sound better, unfortunately.
So, having high-quality cymbals is important to get a great overall drum sound. Most drummers play the cymbals more than they play the toms, so you’ll hear them frequently. No one wants to hear a bad cymbal being played over and over.
The top 4 cymbal brands are Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, and Paiste. These brands have been making cymbals for decades and most professional drummers use them.
The most famous brand is arguably Zildjian. However, each brand has great products on offer and one isn’t better than the other. It all comes down to personal preference.
High-quality cymbals can get very pricey. However, it’s possible to get cheaper cymbals that sound good. You just need to look in the right places. In terms of pricing, a top-quality cymbal would usually cost anywhere from $300 to $500.
Cymbal packs usually don’t come with chinas or splash cymbals, so you need to buy those separately.
Also, cymbal quality doesn’t matter as much to beginners as is does to professionals, so don’t worry about spending too much money if you’re just starting out.
Cleaning cymbals is something that some drummers do. It isn’t necessary, but it can make your cymbals look clear and keep their shiny attributes. If you want to keep your cymbals looking top-notch, you should dust them weekly and give them a good polish every few months.
Dark and unlathed cymbals shouldn’t be polished. Only bright cymbals will benefit from it.
And there you have it drumming ninjas! The world of cymbal packs at your fingertips.
As we’ve explored, there are some incredible options out there. Each cymbal pack has its own unique voice to complement your drumming style.
Having been a drummer for years I can tell you this. There’s nothing quite like finding the perfect cymbals. The right cymbals don’t just add to your drumming, they will be an extension of your musical identity.
Whether it’s the crisp and detailed sound from the Meinl Cymbals Mike Johnston Byzance Set. The all-rounded excellence of the Paiste Signature Classic Cymbal Set. The gorgeous tonalities of the Zildjian K Sweet Cymbal Set or the timeless class of the Zildjian A Custom Cymbal Set there’s a cymbal pack out there that’s just right for you.
So keep these insights and tips in mind before you make your decision. Remember, a drummer’s heart doesn’t just beat. It crashes, rides, and hi-hats.
If you liked this article be sure to go over my guides on Hi-Hats, Crashes, Rides and low volume cymbals.
And as always never stop exploring, never stop learning and most importantly, never stop playing.
Drum on, my friends. Drum on.
Drum Teacher
Brett Clur has a Drum Performance Diploma from Trinity College London has been playing drums for over 20 years. He is passionate about advanced concepts and uses his years of experience to teach his students about them. While he is a full-time drum teacher, he is also working on growing a YouTube channel where shares his insights. You can see him playing there, or on Instagram where he posts daily videos.
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