How to Pick the Right Cymbals

Choosing cymbals is a very unique and personal experience. The process can involve many variables plus no two cymbals are exactly alike—especially when you're
picking from an assortment of high-quality, individually handcrafted Turkish cymbals.
However, regardless of the names, types or brands that may be stamped on them, the most important factors in cymbal selection are your ears. It all comes down to how the cymbals sound to you and how well suited they are for your music. The general rule is that whatever sounds right, is right.

When you're ready to pick your cymbals—whether you need just one or a whole new set—find a store that has a good assortment and an isolated sound room. Here are a few more selection tips you should consider: 1. Bring your current cymbals. They can be useful as a reference point to compare the new ones. 2. Bring your regular sticks. Listen to how the cymbals respond to your own sticks as well as different stick sizes and tip styles, shapes and types. If you're going to be using brushes, mallets or bundles, try to those, too. 1. Rides Check the articulation and wash of the face and the bell. If you're going to be crashing on the ride, try that, as well. 2. Hi-Hats Are they crisp when played closed yet explosive as you open them? Is there a good "chick" when played with the foot? 3. Crashes Listen for the initial explosion and the tone and length of the decay.
4. Chinas, Splashes & Effects Make sure the effects cymbals have the characteristic sounds you're looking for. 5. Does the whole cymbal-set balance/blend/contrast? 6. Consider the style of music you play. Choose the types, sizes, weights and finishes that fit the style and frequency spectrum of the music you play. Decide whether the performance factors (pitch, power, durability, tone, etc.) of the cymbals you're testing meet your needs. 7. Try the cymbals on a drumset that's as close as
possible to the sound of your drumset. Let another drummer hit the cymbals so you can hear what they'll sound like out front, as well. 8. Know what you want but keep an open mind. Try several cymbals of the same size and model, as well as different sizes and models. Whether you're seeking a set-up made from cymbals within a single series or a mix-and-match set-up made from a variety of series and tonalities, don't be afraid to try something different.

Scott Hutton is the owner of Cymbalism Musis at http://www.cymbalismmusic.com and has for the last 10 yrs carried one of largest and most diverse selection of handmade Turkish cymbals.