Best Cymbals for Worship Music

My Picks for Church Cymbals

Introduction:

After playing several musical styles I understand the unique demands of worship music and the importance of choosing the right cymbals to reproduce the drumming sound of worship drummers

The following is a list of the cymbals that I tested and think are the best picks for the style. This article aims to guide you through selecting the best cymbals for you, combining practical experience with an understanding of what makes each cymbal special. 

Whether you’re playing in a contemporary Christian setting or a traditional gospel environment, the right cymbals can elevate your sound. Let’s see what cymbals made my list. 

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The 5 Best Cymbals for Worship Music

Best Cymbals for Worship

The first cymbal pack I picked was the Zildjian K Custom Dark Cymbal Set, I’m a fool for Zildjian I must admit. While playing with them I particularly noticed their exceptional response during a soft worship ballad. The low undertones and the subtle wash that produced during quieter segments created a deeply spiritual ambiance. 

Contrariwise, when I played more vigorously during an upbeat praise song, these cymbals delivered a robust sound without overwhelming the music. Their ability to adapt dynamically to different playing intensities truly sets them apart as a versatile choice for various worship settings.

Build Quality
97%
Performance
99%
Price to Value Ratio
90%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Beautiful dark tone
  • Blend well within a mix
  • Ride cymbal sounds great when crashed
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • Not ideal for high energy gospel settings
Best Cymbals for Worship

After playing the first set I picked a set of the Meinl Cymbals Mike Johnston Byzance Set, and it was a amazing. This set has been put together by the great Mike Johnston.

The first thing that struck me was their exceptional clarity. Each cymbal, from the crisp hi-hats to the resonant ride, contributed to a pristine sound palette, perfect for articulate playing.

During a session of worship music, their nuanced tones shone through, allowing for expressive, subtle playing. In more energetic tunes, they projected clearly without becoming harsh, proving their worth in a diverse range of worship settings.

For more about this cymbal pack see our full buying guide.

Build Quality
96%
Performance
98%
Price to Value Ratio
94%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Distinct dry tone across every cymbal
  • 20” extra-thin crash and 21” Transition ride are fantastic
  • Not too loud
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • Not ideal for high energy gospel settings
Best Cymbals for Worship

The Sabian AAX Praise and Worship Cymbal Set immediately impressed me with its balanced tonal spectrum, perfectly suited for the dynamic range of worship music.

Their bright, shimmering sound cut through the mix during high-energy praise moments, yet they retained a smooth character in softer passages.

Playing these cymbals felt like a dialogue, with each strike yielding a responsive and articulate sound, contributing to an immersive playing experience. Their versatility and expressiveness make them an excellent choice for any worship drummer. Plus it comes with a Splash cymbal as a bounes. 

Build Quality
92%
Performance
95%
Price to Value Ratio
96%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Great for gospel settings
  • Good balance of speed, power, and projection
  • Excellent price to value ratio
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • New Sabian logo
Best Cymbals for Worship

The Paiste Signature Classic Cymbal Set is a true standout. During my play test, what captivated me the most was their crisp, bright sound.

These cymbals are engineered for precision, making them ideal for intricate worship pieces. A cymbal that particular stands out on this set is the ride it just sounds right and super versatile. 

They offer a glassy, shimmering quality, especially in the crashes, which adds a brilliant texture to the music. Whether it’s a gentle tap or a full swing, they respond with clarity and consistency, making them a top choice if you prefer a refined, articulate sound in you worship sessions.

Build Quality
99%
Performance
97%
Price to Value Ratio
89%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Excellent Paiste craftsmanship
  • Includes 3 crash cymbals
  • 20” crash can double up as a ride cymbal
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • Expensive
Zildjian A Custom Set review

To complete my best picks for Worship drumming I decided to play the Zildjian A Cymbal Set, their classic, versatile sound immediately stood out.

These cymbals are known for their bright, focused tones that blend well in any worship setting. They offer a balanced mix of sustain and decay, making them highly adaptable, whether it’s for a soft, contemplative piece or a lively praise song. From this set the Hi Hats are the highlights with super crisp sound.  

Their durability and consistency in delivering quality sound make them a reliable choice for worship drummers who need cymbals that can perform well across a wide range of musical styles.

Build Quality
94%
Performance
92%
Price to Value Ratio
92%
PROS: THINGS WE LIKED
  • Bright tone
  • Great for high energy environments
  • Most affordable set on the list
CONS: THINGS WE DIDN'T LIKE
  • Too loud for quiet venues

FAQ

What are the best cymbals for church?

The best cymbals for a church will depend on the size of the church. If the church is small, dry cymbals with minimal sustain will work wonders. If it’s big, larger cymbals with a dominant sound would be good. Warmer tones are often preferred, but it always comes down to the size of the venue.

What are the best sounding cymbals?

Cymbals that are dark with complex tones generally sound the best. However, it comes down to personal preference and some drummers prefer bright cymbals. Any cymbal that is made with higher-quality metal will sound better than entry-level cymbals. 

What are the best Zildjian cymbals?

The K line of Zildjian is the most popular high-quality series of cymbals. Every cymbal in that line has a beautiful tone that is loved by pros and beginners alike. There’s a Zildjian K cymbal for every situation. Check my Zildjian Cymbals buying guide

Conclusion

In conclusion, each of these cymbal sets brings something unique to the table, catering to the diverse needs of worship music.

From the warm, versatile tones of Zildjian to the crisp precision of Paiste, each set has its own character. Whether you’re leading a tranquil worship session or an upbeat praise, these cymbals can enhance your musical expression, helping to create a truly spiritual experience for your congregation.

If you found this guide useful you can also check my article about the best drum sets for church.

It’s a great thing to play drums in church. Never forget the value of serving!

I’m crazy about drums, it’s been my passion since I was 12 years old. I played in numerous bands going through different styles like Rock, Progressive, Pop & Jazz-Rock. After being featured in major music publications (DrumeoGuitar GuitarAudioIssuesMusicThinkTank I started this website to share my knowledge and create a resource for drummers of all levels.

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