AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 12" Orchestral Cymbals Under $200 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.
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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
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- 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 5 models we track, not a sample.
median of 5 models · 12"–13"
How to choose the best 12" orchestral cymbals
Sustain
At this price, expect shorter sustain. You're not getting the infinite bloom of a Zildjian A Custom. But a decent sustain lets those delicate rolls breathe a little.
Articulation
Can you get a clean, defined 'stick attack' without a harsh, metallic clang? Clear articulation is vital for orchestral work - you need to hear the notes, not just the noise.
Timbre
We're looking for a balanced tone - not too bright and ice-picky, not too dull and lifeless. That 'fat midrange honk' is what you want for a good orchestral wash, but it's a tough balance to achieve affordably.
Trashiness/Character
Some cymbals have a certain... grit. While a pristine, glassy sound is ideal, a little character can add realism and cut through a dense orchestral texture, especially in a live setting. Finding that sweet spot is key.
Lathing & Finish
The hammering and lathing impact the cymbal's response and overall sound. Cheaper cymbals will often have less consistent lathing, which can lead to uneven response. The finish also affects brightness - darker finishes tend to be warmer.
Buying guide
So, you need 12" orchestral cymbals, and you're on a budget? Totally get it. They're the workhorses of the section - quiet washes, delicate swells, and those crucial shimmer accents. Finding something that cuts through without breaking the bank can be tricky, but it's doable. Let's look at some options that won't leave you eating ramen for a month.
Realistically, at this price point, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect the complexity and nuance of a hand-hammered, premium cymbal. You'll likely find shorter sustain, a less refined finish, and potentially some unwanted overtones.
Look for cymbals with a relatively even lathe pattern and listen closely for any harsh frequencies. Prioritize articulation over sheer volume - you can always add a little shimmer with dampening if needed.
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. 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 suitable for recording?
They can be, but be mindful of the inherent limitations. Close-miking and careful EQ are your friends. You'll need to tame some of those unwanted frequencies to get a clean, usable sound.
What's the difference between a 'brilliant' and a 'natural' finish?
Brilliant finishes are shinier and brighter, emphasizing higher frequencies. Natural finishes are darker, warmer, and generally more suited for orchestral work. You'll get a harsher sound with a brilliant finish at this price point.
Can I use these cymbals for other genres?
Absolutely. While designed for orchestral, their versatility means they can be used in folk, world music, or even softer rock/pop settings where you want a more subtle shimmer.
What about durability? Will they fall apart?
They're not going to last forever, especially with heavy gigging. Expect to replace them more frequently than higher-end models. Proper care - wiping them down after each use - will extend their lifespan considerably.
Are there any brands I should avoid?
Generally, steer clear of ultra-budget, no-name brands. The quality control is often inconsistent, and you're more likely to end up with a cymbal that's more frustrating than useful. Stick to reputable brands, even if they're in their entry-level lines.
