Best Meinl 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals 2026
Alright, let's talk 13" hi-hats. They're not the default anymore - the 14" has been king for a while - but a well-chosen 13" can be a secret weapon. They offer a tighter, more articulate response, a quicker chick sound, and a different kind of sizzle. If you're looking to dial back the boom and get a more focused, vintage vibe, especially for jazz, funk, or even a more intimate rock setting, a Meinl 13" might be exactly what you're after.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
Meinl 13" Byzance Hi-Hat Medium
- • Exceptional stick definition thanks to the B12 bronze alloy.
- • Complex, shimmering wash provides a sophisticated, nuanced sound.
- • Hand-hammered lathing creates a lively, responsive feel.
- • The medium weight offers a versatile response across various playing styles.
- • The 13-inch size limits low-end projection compared to larger hi-hats.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The bright, complex sound may not suit heavier, darker musical genres.
Meinl 13" Byzance Serpents Hi-Hat
- • Derek Roddy signature design delivers a uniquely musical, complex sound.
- • B20 bronze construction provides warmth and sustain characteristic of high-end cymbals.
- • Distinct top and bottom cymbal hammering creates nuanced chick and pedal response.
- • 13-inch size offers a darker, more controlled sound than standard 14-inch hats.
- • Premium-priced, making them a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The 'washed-out' tone might not suit heavier, more aggressive musical styles.
- • Smaller size limits versatility; not ideal for players needing a bright, cutting sound.
Meinl 13" Byzance Dark Hi-Hat
- • Exceptional dark, controlled sound ideal for jazz and quieter genres
- • Hand-hammering provides nuanced complexity and responsiveness
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, full, and complex tone
- • 13-inch size offers a tighter, more defined chick sound
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category for many drummers
- • Dark sound may lack the sizzle desired for louder, more aggressive styles
- • Smaller size can feel a bit limiting for players accustomed to 14-inch hats
Meinl 13" Byzance Extra Dry Hi-Hat
- • Exceptional stick definition due to the carefully hammered profile.
- • The 'Extra Dry' lathing produces a uniquely muted, controlled wash.
- • B20 bronze provides a complex, warm tonal foundation.
- • 13-inch size offers a tighter, more responsive feel compared to larger hats.
- • The dry sound isn't suitable for all genres; lacks bright, shimmering qualities.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Can be overly quiet for louder, more aggressive musical styles.
Meinl 13" Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hat
- • Exceptionally responsive, nuanced chick sound due to thin profile and B20 bronze.
- • Warm, dark, and complex tone ideal for jazz, blues, and vintage recordings.
- • Hand-hammered finish provides a uniquely musical, shimmering quality.
- • 13-inch size offers a more intimate, controlled feel compared to larger hi-hats.
- • Thinness makes them potentially fragile; requires careful handling and transport.
- • The dark tone may not suit heavier rock or metal styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
Meinl 13" Classics Custom Dark HH
- • The B10 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • The dark finish reduces harshness, emphasizing the low-end frequencies.
- • The 13” size offers a tighter, more controlled chick sound than larger hats.
- • Meinl's hammering provides a consistent, responsive feel across both cymbals.
- • The 'dark' voicing might lack brilliance for brighter, more modern styles.
- • While durable, the B10 bronze isn't as resistant to cracking as higher-end alloys.
- • The natural finish requires more frequent cleaning to maintain optimal sound.
Meinl 13" HCS Hi-Hat
- • Bright, clear stick definition for clean patterns.
- • HCS bronze offers decent durability for beginners.
- • Consistent, predictable response across the entire range.
- • Lightweight feel allows for faster, more nuanced playing.
- • HCS bronze lacks the complexity of higher-end alloys.
- • Sound can be a little thin; lacks low-end warmth.
- • Not ideal for heavier hitters or complex, splashy patterns.
How to Choose the Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals
Meinl Heritage
Meinl's approach often leans toward a more European aesthetic - a drier, more complex tone than the often-brighter American sounds. This gives them a unique character that cuts through a dense mix without being overly aggressive.
Chick Sound
This is where 13" hats really shine, and Meinl consistently delivers a crisp, defined chick. It's not a 'thud' - it's a 'tick' that really locks in with the kick and snare. The weight and hammering influence this a lot - lighter hats will have a more immediate response.
Sustain & Wash
Meinl 13"s generally have a shorter sustain and a tighter wash compared to larger hats. This can be a plus for clarity and articulation, but if you want that huge, shimmering wash, this isn't your gig. It's about control, not endless reverb.
Build & Lathing
Meinl's hammering and lathing are generally consistent. You'll find a range of finishes - from raw to brilliant - which significantly impacts the tone. A raw finish will retain more of the metal's natural character, while a brilliant finish will bring out more overtones and a brighter sound.
Series Differentiation
Meinl has a huge range - Byzance, Classic Custom, Professional Perfect, etc. Each series has a distinct voicing. Byzance is typically their premium line, offering more complex overtones and a more refined feel, while the Classic Custom series is a great balance of price and performance.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the 'brightest' or 'loudest' 13". Think about the context - a busy stage mix demands a different hat than a quiet jazz trio. Pay attention to the weight; lighter hats are more responsive but can be a bit fragile. And honestly, even within Meinl, there's a huge tonal difference between a Byzance Vintage and a Professional Perfect - listen to sound samples and, if possible, try them out in person. You're paying for nuance, not just volume.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these Meinl 13" hi-hats alongside other top contenders - Zildjian, Sabian, Paiste - in everything from loud band rehearsals to quiet bedroom practice sessions and tracking in a pro studio. We're listening for the nuances: the wash, the stick attack, the pedal response, and how they sit in a mix. It's about feel and sound, not numbers.
