Best Ride Cymbal For Recording 2023

If you’re looking for the best ride cymbal for recording, you’ve come to the right place. Finding the best ride cymbal for your needs can be a challenge. Even if you play a variety of genres, you might prefer different ride cymbals for recording than you do live.

Luckily, we’ve done the research for you and rounded up the top options.
Read on to find the best ride cymbal for you.

Our Editor’s Best Ride Cymbal For Recording Reviews


Sabian B8X 20″ Ride Cymbal, 20 inch (42012X)

 Sabian B8X 20

Key Features:

  • The B8X cymbal is a great choice for recording because it is hammered for more projection and complexity than any other B8 cymbal. This makes it a great option for creating a fuller, richer soundscape in your recordings.

  • The ride cymbal for recording is a great choice for those who want to be noticed on stage. With its bright sound and impressive durability, this cymbal is sure to make a statement.

  • This ride cymbal is made of pure bronze and is designed to produce a bright, cutting sound. It is precision formed and hammered for a tight, pure sound.

  • The SABIAN 20″ B8X Ride is a versatile model that is perfect for the serious beginner. It is made of B8 bronze, which makes it durable and produces a clear, powerful sound. It has a smooth, even response and is great for a variety of genres.

  • This ride cymbal is designed for clear stick definition, cutting bell, and bright tonal response.


Sabian B8X 20″ Rock Ride Cymbal

 Sabian B8X 20

Key Features:

  • The B8X is a ride cymbal that is hammered for more projection and complexity than any other B8. This makes it an ideal choice for recording.

  • This is a ride cymbal that is designed to be used for recording purposes. It is made to be noticed on stage, and it is made to produce a clear and concise sound.

  • The B8X is a precision-formed ride cymbal made of pure bronze. It is designed to produce a bright, cutting sound.

  • The B8X cymbals are a great option for those looking to record with a ride cymbal for the first time. They are priced affordably, making them a great option for those on a budget.

  • The SABIAN 20″ B8X Rock Ride is a clean and solid ride cymbal that delivers total clarity at all volumes. It has a crisp, solid bell that makes it perfect for recording.


Paiste 2002 Classic Cymbal Ride 20-inch

 Paiste 2002 Classic Cymbal Ride 20-inch

Key Features:

  • This is a ride cymbal that is made of a material known as CuSn8 bronze, which is also known as 2002 bronze. This ride cymbal has been in production since 1971.

  • This is a ride cymbal that is good for recording for a shopper who wants to use it for classic rock, blues, punk, hard rock, heavy metal, modern metal, crossover country rock, ska, rockabilly, funk, R&B, soul, gospel, and modern hybrids rooted in those styles.

  • The ride cymbal for recording is a brilliant, clear, warm, strong, musical, and very precise cymbal with high energy levels and powerfully reliable projection.


Rides Again by James Gang Original recording remastered edition (2000) Audio CD

 Rides Again by James Gang Original recording remastered edition (2000) Audio CD

Key Features:


ITSHAND Professional 18″ 0.8mm Copper Alloy Ride Cymbal for Drum Set Golden

 ITSHAND Professional 18

Key Features:

  • The 18″ ride cymbal is made of high quality copper alloy. It has a bright, cutting sound that is great for recording.

  • This cymbal has a brilliant metal luster that makes it perfect for recording. It has a clear, bright sound that will add sparkle to your recordings.

  • The 3. offers shoppers a melodious tinkle sound when hit, making it perfect for recording purposes.

  • This ride cymbal is designed for professional drummers who want to get the most out of their recordings. It has a great sound and is built to last.

  • This ride cymbal is perfect for recording a shopper who wants to create a heated music atmosphere. It will add strength and power to your recording, making it sound more intense and exciting.


Meinl 20″ Ride Cymbal – HCS Traditional Finish Brass for Drum Set, Made in Germany, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (HCS20R)

 Meinl 20

Key Features:

  • The HCS 20″ ride cymbal has a broad range of sound, making it versatile for recording. It can be played on the top with the tip of your drumstick for a softer sound, on the bell for cutting accents, or toward the side for big crashes. This cymbal produces tonal depth, but stick clarity is where it shines for time-keeping.

  • The HCS ride cymbal is a great choice for recording because it has a warm, balanced tone that will not sound tinny or over-the-top.

  • The Medium Weight Sweet Spot Ride Cymbal is a great choice for recording. It is heavy enough to be easily heard, but not too heavy where it will overpower your sound. It is also easily controllable for any musical scenario.

  • The Meinl HCS cymbals are a great entry point for beginner drummers. They have ultra-clean sounds that let you hear every note with clarity. They also have classic good looks that make your set look more refined and upscale.

  • The Meinl HCS cymbal is a versatile and affordable option for drummers of any skill level. These cymbals offer a great sound for practice or recording, and blend well with a cajon in acoustic settings.

  • The MS63 is a durable brass alloy ride cymbal that produces a mix of volume, clarity, and warmth that is perfect for any musical style from rock to pop to jazz. The cymbal is formed to withstand the brunt of drumsticks while still providing a musical tone.

  • This ride cymbal is good for recording because it has a full range of sounds. It is also unique to this price range.

  • The Meinl HCS cymbals are made in Germany with 100% renewable energy. These cymbals are made in Meinl’s German factory, which is located near where the company’s designers work. This allows Meinl to maintain total control over the production process and produce the highest quality cymbals possible. Plus, the use of renewable energy to make these cymbals is a major selling point for environmentally-conscious shoppers.


EXCEART Hi Hat Cymbals Crash/Ride Cymbal Brass Sturdy Hi-hat Cymbal for Drum Players Percussion Drum, 8 Inches

 EXCEART Hi Hat Cymbals Crash/Ride Cymbal Brass Sturdy Hi-hat Cymbal for Drum Players Percussion Drum, 8 Inches

Key Features:

  • This ride cymbal is made of premium brass material, which is stable and unfading. It is also durable and anti-rust, making it perfect for long-time use.

  • This cymbal is designed for recording purposes and is noted for its delicate workmanship. It has a classic appearance and is beautiful and delicate.

  • The cymbal has a crisp sound that is vibrant and loud, delivering a persuasive sound quality.

  • The ride cymbal is suitable for a wide range of music lovers, from professionals to students and amateurs. It is a great choice for large music programs.

  • The 8 crash/ride cymbal is a versatile recording cymbal that can be used for a clean “ping” sound or for a big crash effect. It is a great choice for recording purposes.


Meinl 18″ Crash/Ride Cymbal – HCS Traditional Finish Brass for Drum Set, Made in Germany, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (HCS18CR)

 Meinl 18

Key Features:

  • The Meinl HCS 18″ crash/ride is a versatile cymbal that can be used for both crashing and riding. It has a clean “ping” sound when played on the top or bell, and a big crash sound when played on the side.

  • The HCS crash/ride cymbal is a great choice for recording purposes because it has a warm, balanced tone that won’t be too brash or piercing.

  • ThisMedium weight sweet spot — this crash/ride cymbal sits in a zone where it’s heavy enough for your ride patterns to be easily heard while not being too heavy where your sound would overpower; it’s an easily controllable cymbal for any musical scenario is a great ride cymbal for recording as it is the perfect weight and size for any musical scenario. It is also easily controllable, making it a great choice for any shopper.

  • This is a ride cymbal that is great for beginners. It has a clear sound that will let you hear every note. It also has a classic look that will make your set look more refined.

  • The Meinl HCS cymbal is a versatile and affordable option for drummers of any skill level. They are made from a high-quality cast bronze that gives them a clear, musical tone. They are also very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

  • This is a durable brass alloy ride cymbal that produces a mix of volume, clarity, and warmth that is suited for any musical style. It is formed to withstand the impact of drumsticks and has a musical tone.

  • This ride cymbal is good for recording because it has a full range of sounds. It is unique to this price range and offers all of the cymbal types and sizes normally found in professional setups to beginners. This means you can build up your drum set exactly how you want with a uniform sound.

  • This cymbal is made in Germany with 100% renewable energy. Meinl HCS cymbals are made in our German factory not far from where our designers work so we can maintain total control and produce the highest quality. Plus, we use 100% renewable energy to make these cymbals.


Sabian SBR1811 SBR Series Pure Brass 18-Inch Crash/Ride Cymbal

 Sabian SBR1811 SBR Series Pure Brass 18-Inch Crash/Ride Cymbal

Key Features:

  • The cymbal is versatile and can be used for both riding and crashing. It delivers a full-bodied sound for both applications.

  • The SBr Brass is a smartly priced ride cymbal that is in a class of its own. It is made from high quality materials and is designed to provide excellent sound quality.

  • The SBr ride cymbal is designed for recording purposes and is perfect for shoppers who are just starting out. It is made from high-quality materials and produces a clear, consistent sound.


Meinl Cymbals HCS 22” Ride Cymbal for Drum Set — Made in Germany — Traditional Medium Brass, 2-Year Warranty (HCS22R)

 Meinl Cymbals HCS 22” Ride Cymbal for Drum Set — Made in Germany — Traditional Medium Brass, 2-Year Warranty (HCS22R)

Key Features:

  • The HCS 22″ ride cymbal for recording is a versatile and affordable option for drummers of all skill levels. It has a broad range of sound, making it ideal for a variety of musical genres. The cymbal is also durable and easy to care for, making it a great choice for a recording studio.

  • The HSC ride cymbal is a great choice for recording because it has a warm, balanced tone that will sound natural on your drums. It has plenty of warmth and will not be too brash or tinny.

  • The Medium weight sweet spot ride cymbal is a great option for recording because it is heavy enough to be easily heard but not so heavy that it will overpower your sound. This cymbal is also easily controllable for any musical scenario.

  • The Meinl HCS cymbals are a great entry point for beginner drummers. They have ultra-clean sounds that let you hear every note with clarity, and their classic good looks make your set look more refined and upscale.

  • The Meinl HCS cymbals are a great choice for recording, as they are versatile and can be used by players of any skill level. They produce a musical, reliable sound that will blend well with other instruments in an acoustic setting.

  • The MS63 is a durable brass alloy ride cymbal that is suitable for all musical styles. It is formed to be able to withstand the impact of drumsticks while still producing a clear and warm tone.

  • The HCS cymbals offer a wide range of sounds, making them a great choice for recording. They’re also very affordable, making them a great option for beginners.

  • The Meinl HCS cymbals are made in Germany with 100% renewable energy. These cymbals are made in Meinl’s German factory, which is located near their designers. This allows Meinl to maintain total control and produce the highest quality. Plus, using 100% renewable energy to make these cymbals is good for the environment.


Best Ride Cymbal For Recording Buying Guide

1. Size: The most important thing to consider when choosing a ride cymbal is the size. Ride cymbals are available in a range of sizes, from 8” to 22”.

Ride cymbals with larger diameters are suitable for jazz and medium volume settings. They produce a full and rich sound, and are especially suited for drummers who like to play with a lot of dynamics.

Medium sized ride cymbals are suitable for most musical applications. They can produce a wide range of sounds and work well for drummers who like to play with a lot of dynamics.

Small ride cymbals are suitable for quieter musical settings or for drummers who like to play with little dynamics. They produce a clear and focused sound.

2. Tone: Ride cymbals are available in various types of finishes. They produce different tones and are suitable for different music styles.

The most popular ride cymbal finishes include:

Thin – suitable for drummers who like to play with a lot of dynamics. They produce a wide range of sounds.

Bright – a focused sound with a sharp attack. They are suitable for music styles such as rock, pop, and punk.

Dark – similar to thin cymbals but with a wider range of sounds. They are suitable for jazz and medium volume settings.

Medium – similar to thin cymbals but with a slightly wider range of sounds. They are suitable for most musical applications.

3. Pitch: Ride cymbals are available in two pitches – low and medium. The pitch of the cymbal is an important factor to consider, especially if you play in an orchestra.

If you play in a drum set, then the pitch of the ride cymbal doesn’t matter a lot. But if you play in an orchestra and you need to match the pitch of the ride cymbal to the other orchestra instruments, then it is important to get a cymbal that produces a specific pitch.

Ride cymbals produce a specific pitch if they have a wide bell and a small diameter. Using a cymbal with a specific pitch is important if you play with other musicians in an orchestra setting.

4. Quality: Ride cymbals are available in a wide range of prices. They are suitable for different music styles and produce different tones.

To get the best value for your money, it is important to get a ride cymbal that produces the sounds you like.

While shopping for a ride cymbal, you can listen to the sound samples of various cymbals to get a better idea of the sound they produce.

To get the best quality ride cymbal for your money, it is important to consider the raw materials and craftsmanship of the cymbal.

The raw materials and craftsmanship of the ride cymbal are important because they affect the tone and durability of the cymbal.

The grade of the raw materials matters because a higher grade cymbal produces a rich sound and is suitable for a wide range of music styles.

The craftsmanship of the ride cymbal matters because a well crafted cymbal produces a clean sound and is suitable for quieter musical settings.

5. Warranty: Ride cymbals are available in a wide range of prices and in different sizes, tones, and craftsmanship.

It is important to know that you are getting value for your money by getting a ride cymbal with a good warranty. A good warranty ensures that your cymbal has a long


Ride Cymbal For Recording FAQs

1. What size of ride cymbal do you need for recording?

The size of ride cymbal you need for recording depends on the style of music you are recording. If you are recording rock or metal, you will need a larger cymbal. If you are recording jazz or blues, you will need a smaller cymbal.

2. How do you mic a ride cymbal for recording?

The most common way to mic a ride cymbal is to use a small diaphragm condenser microphone placed about 6-12 inches above the cymbal.

3. What type of ride cymbal is best for recording?

I would recommend using a ride cymbal that is specifically designed for recording. These cymbals typically have a more controlled sound and are less likely to produce unwanted noise.

4. How do you position the ride cymbal for recording?

The ride cymbal is positioned in front of the drum set, slightly off to the right.

5. How do you EQ a ride cymbal for recording?

A ride cymbal can be EQ’d for recording by boosting the highs and lows, and attenuating the mids. This will help the cymbal to cut through the mix and be more audible.


Conclusion

There are many great ride cymbal for recording on the market. Our list of the best ride cymbal for recording will help you save time researching and choosing the best one for you.