AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Thomann 12" Orchestral Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Thomann 12" B20 Marching Cymbals ($66). Thomann 12" Copper Pl Marching Cymbals gives you the most for the money at $21. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 5 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 7, 2026
Top 5
Full detail for the 5 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
- Size12"
- Weight1.3 kg
These are 12-inch marching crash cymbals made from B20 Bronze. They come with straps and felt pads, so you can get set up right away. They suit you if you need a pair for marching or crash parts and want everything in one box.
Pros
- Made from B20 Bronze, a common alloy for cymbals
- 12-inch size suits marching and crash use
- Comes with straps for easy holding
-
- Size12"
These are 12 inch copper cymbals made for marching and orchestral use. You get a pair with a lacquer finish and loops, so you can start playing right away. They suit you if you need a simple, affordable pair for a marching band or orchestra.
Pros
- Made of copper, a metal used for this type of cymbal
- Lacquer finish on the copper surface
- Sold as a pair, so you get two cymbals in one package
-
- Size13"
You get a pair of 13 inch copper cymbals with a lacquer finish, and they come with loops for holding them. They are made for both marching and orchestral playing, so they suit a marching band or an orchestra. Check the listed weight before you buy, since it looks unusually high.
Pros
- Made of copper for a metal cymbal build
- Lacquer finish on the cymbals
- Loops included for holding the cymbals
-
- Size12"
These are 12 inch brass cymbals made for marching and orchestral use. You get a pair, and loops are already included, so you can start playing right away. They suit you if you need a basic, ready-to-use pair for a marching band or orchestra.
Pros
- Made of brass, a metal used for many marching and orchestral cymbals
- Comes in a 12 inch size, a common size for crashing
- Loops are included, so the pair is ready to play
-
- Size13"
These are 13 inch brass cymbals, sold as a pair. They are made for marching and orchestral use, and loops come with them, so you can hold them as soon as you open the box. If you need a pair for a marching band or an orchestra, these are a simple, budget-friendly choice to look at.
Pros
- Sold as a pair, so you get two cymbals in one purchase
- Made of brass, a metal used for cymbals
- Sized at 13 inches for marching and orchestral use
12" Orchestral Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 6 models we track, not a sample.
median of 6 models · 12"–13"
How to choose the best 12" orchestral cymbals
Tone
These cymbals have a surprisingly dark and controlled wash. They're not bright and shimmering like some orchestral cymbals; think more along the lines of a muted, almost vintage quality. This makes them blend well in a large ensemble and avoids that harsh, ice-picky top end that can be a real headache in close-miked recording situations.
Articulation & Dynamics
The response is even across the cymbal face, which is essential for clean orchestral passages. You get a good range of dynamics - from a whisper-quiet tap to a solid crash - without feeling like you're wrestling with the metal. It's not going to give you a huge, explosive sound, but it's articulate and responsive.
Build Quality
The lathing is consistent, and the edges are relatively clean. They're not hand-hammered, obviously, so there's a certain uniformity that some players might find a little sterile, but it also means they're durable and less prone to cracking under heavy use. The bell tone is decent - a little choked, but usable.
Value
This is where Thomann really shines. You're getting a cymbal that performs significantly better than its price point suggests. They're a fantastic option for music schools, community orchestras, or anyone needing a large quantity of reliable 12" cymbals.
Durability
Being made from a slightly heavier gauge bronze, these hold up surprisingly well to regular gigging. They won't sound pristine after a year of heavy use, but they're less likely to crack or develop stress fractures compared to thinner, cheaper options.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a solid 12" orchestral cymbal? It's a crucial size for a lot of classical and film scoring work, and honestly, you don't want to cheap out. Thomann's house-brand orchestral cymbals have flown under the radar for years, but they've consistently delivered a surprising amount of performance for the price. They aren't Zildjian or Paiste, but they're a seriously reliable workhorse option when you need a dozen of these without breaking the bank.
Look, these aren't going to replace your custom-made Paiste Signature cymbals, but for the money, they're incredibly hard to beat. The main trade-off is that they lack that unique character and complexity you find in higher-end cymbals. If you're building a full orchestral set and need consistency, these are a smart choice.
Don't expect a ton of shimmer or complex overtones - they're designed to be reliable and blend, not steal the show.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 5 12" orchestral cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 6 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are these cymbals good for recording?
Absolutely. Their darker tone and controlled sustain make them very forgiving in a recording environment, especially when using condenser mics. They won't contribute to unwanted harshness.
What kind of music are these best suited for?
They're a solid all-rounder, but really excel in classical, film score, and orchestral settings where a balanced and controlled sound is needed. They're not ideal for rock or metal where you want a lot of crash and sizzle.
How do they compare to other budget orchestral cymbals?
They generally outperform cheaper options in terms of overall tone quality and durability. Many budget cymbals are too bright and brittle; these have a more mature, darker sound.
Will these crack easily?
They're thicker than some of the super-thin cymbals out there, so they're less prone to cracking. However, any cymbal can crack if abused, so proper handling and cleaning are still important.
Can I use these as a ride cymbal?
While you can, they're not really designed for it. The stick response is more suited for crashes and washes, and the bell tone is a bit choked. You'll get a functional ride sound, but it won't be inspiring.
