AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 14" Crash Cymbals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Sabian XSR5005GB XSR Performance 14" / 16" / 20" Cymbal Pack w/ 18"… ($211). Paiste 14" PST X Swiss Thin Crash Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $98. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 48 models across 10 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Sabian XSR5005GB XSR Performance 14" / 16" / 20" Cymbal Pack w/ 18"…
14" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This is a 14-inch crash cymbal from Sabian's XSR series, made of B20 bronze with a brilliant finish. Its thinner build means it reacts quickly and sensitively, so you may like it if you want a fast crash. The maker calls it universally applicable, so it can fit many kinds of drumming.
Pros
- Made from B20 bronze, a common cymbal alloy
- Brilliant finish gives it a shiny look
- Thinner build gives it high sensitivity to light and hard strikes
86AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$211 now$211€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 14" Classics Custom Dark Trash Crash Cymbal 2019
14" Classics Custom Med. Crash · Meinl
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This is a 14 inch medium crash with a brilliant finish. It is balanced across all frequencies and has a dissolving sound with a pleasant attack, so you get a crash that blends in well. It is an all-purpose crash for all styles of music, which makes it a good pick if you want one crash for many kinds of playing.
Pros
- Part of the Meinl Classics Custom series, a line of cymbals from the same maker
- Medium weight crash with a brilliant surface finish
- Balanced across all frequencies for an even, consistent crash
84AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 14" PST X Swiss Thin Crash Cymbal
14" PSTX Swiss Thin Crash · Paiste
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This 14-inch crash is made for quick, sharp hits. You get a fast, explosive response with a short sustain, so the sound stops quickly instead of ringing on. It suits you if you want a crash that speaks right away and gets out of the way.
Pros
- Fast, explosive, light response for quick accents
- Basic tone with a short sustain that cuts off fast
- Silk-matte surface finish
Cons
- Short sustain means it will not ring out for long
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Istanbul Mehmet 14" Traditional Series Heavy Crash Cymbal
14" Heavy Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This Istanbul Mehmet 14 in Heavy Crash is a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a vintage-inspired crash with a quick response and a good amount of volume. Its heavy construction gives it a real presence, making it ideal for rock, jazz, and heavier styles where you need a cymbal that cuts through the mix. It's a versatile workhorse that delivers a classic Turkish sound.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bronze delivers a complex, shimmering wash.
- Heavy weight provides a substantial feel and powerful projection.
- Regular finish offers a balanced brightness without excessive sustain.
Cons
- The 'dry' tone might lack sustain for some modern genres.
- Heavy weight can be fatiguing in extended playing sessions.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$233 now$233€209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
This Masterwork 14 in Resonant Crash is a surprisingly good value. It’s got a clear, bright sound with a warm core that sits nicely in a mix – perfect for jazz, acoustic gigs, or anyone wanting a sophisticated crash without the premium price tag. It’s a solid, well-made cymbal that punches above its weight class.
Pros
- Hand-polished B-25 alloy delivers a bright, shimmering wash.
- Turkish crafting traditions ensure consistent quality and responsiveness.
- Warm fundamental tone provides a musical, non-abrasive crash.
Cons
- B-25 alloy might lack the complexity of higher-end bronze blends.
- Smaller size limits its volume potential in larger ensembles.
65AudioFu
Index↓ 4.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$162 · Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal
PST7 14" Thin Crash · Paiste
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size14"
This is a 14-inch thin crash from Paiste's PST7 series, made of CuSn8 bronze in Switzerland. It gives you a light crash with a traditional sound and look, so you can add accents without overpowering the other players. It suits you if you play all kinds of music, especially soft to medium loud styles.
Pros
- Made from CuSn8 bronze, a traditional cymbal alloy
- Made in Switzerland
- Suitable for all styles of music
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- Size14"
This Zultan Q-Series crash is a real character piece. The contrasting finishes look fantastic, and the deep hammering gives it a really full, expressive sound – perfect for players seeking a darker, more vintage-inspired crash that cuts through the mix without being overly aggressive.
Pros
- Deep hammering creates a complex, washier sound than typical crashes
- B-20 bronze provides a warm, full tone with good sustain
- Unique contrasting finishes offer visual appeal and tonal variation
Cons
- The raw, untreated edges might require occasional maintenance to prevent oxidization
- The darker sound might not suit all musical styles, like very bright, modern pop
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
This Zultan Rock Beat crash is a solid, dependable choice for rock, pop, and heavier styles. It's got a big, warm sound that cuts through a band without being overly splashy, and the hand-hammering gives it a nice, responsive feel. Perfect for drummers needing a reliable, affordable crash that delivers a good punch.
Pros
- Full B-20 bronze delivers a rich, complex fundamental tone.
- Hand-hammering creates a responsive, musical crash with good sustain.
- Bright, hand-polished surface enhances shimmer and visual appeal.
Cons
- The 'full' sound might be too dark for very bright, modern genres.
- Lacks the intricate trashiness of higher-end, more complex crash designs.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
The Aeon FX is a really interesting crash – Zultan’s B25 alloy gives it a unique warmth and shimmer that cuts through a mix nicely. It’s a great option for drummers looking for a splashy, articulate crash without the full commitment of a larger cymbal; ideal for pop, funk, and lighter rock.
Pros
- B25 bronze delivers a warm, complex harmonic content.
- Hand-hammering creates a lively, responsive feel.
- FX profile provides a unique, shimmering wash of sound.
Cons
- The B25 alloy might lack the ultimate sustain of B20 bronze.
- FX crashes, by design, aren't as versatile as traditional crashes.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$207 now$207€185 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
This Zultan Mellow Crash is a clever piece of kit. It gives you a really authentic feel and a warm, controlled sound without being ear-splittingly loud – perfect for rehearsals, smaller gigs, or even as a quieter alternative for e-drum setups. It’s a solid choice for drummers who need a manageable volume without sacrificing quality or feel.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Reduced volume is genuinely noticeable, great for quieter settings.
- Hand-hammered construction ensures responsive rebound and character.
Cons
- The mellow character limits its suitability for aggressive, high-volume playing.
- The natural finish is prone to finger smudges and requires occasional cleaning.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$218 now$218€195 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 48 14" crash cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Istanbul Mehmet 14" X-Rubbish CrashIstanbul Mehmet64Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 12
Istanbul Mehmet 14" X-Ray 6 CrashIstanbul Mehmet64Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
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Istanbul Mehmet 14" Paper Thin Crash Tradit.Istanbul Mehmet64Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 14
Paiste 14" PST X Swiss Flanger Crash Cymbal14" PSTX Swiss Flanger Crash · Paiste83Stable$98€88$98€88Check ↗
- 15
Masterwork 14" Troy CrashMasterwork63Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 16
Masterwork 14" Custom Thin CrashMasterwork63Stable$151€135$151€135Check ↗
- 17
Masterwork 14" Custom CrashMasterwork63Stable$162€145$162€145Check ↗
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Masterwork 14" Jazz Master CrashMasterwork63Stable$184€165$184€165Check ↗
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Meinl 14" Class. Cust. Dark Tr. Cr.Meinl62Stable$151€135$151€135Check ↗
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Sabian 14" B8X Thin CrashSabian62Stable$151€135$151€135Check ↗
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Istanbul Mehmet 14" Turk Crash Cymbal14" Crash Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet61Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
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Istanbul Mehmet 14" Samatya Crash Cymbal14" Crash Samatya Series · Istanbul Mehmet61Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
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Istanbul Mehmet 14" Traditional Series Thin Crash Cymbal14" Thin Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet61Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
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Istanbul Mehmet 14" Traditional Series Medium Crash Cymbal14" Medium Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet61Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
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Zultan 14" Dark Matter Splatter CrashZultan60↑ 7.8%$155€139$155€139Check ↗
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Ufip 14" Class Series Crash MediumUfip58Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 27
Schlagwerk 14" Cajon Crash-RideSchlagwerk58Stable$218€195$218€195Check ↗
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Masterwork 14" Troy Traditional CrashMasterwork64↓ 3.4%$128€115$128€115Check ↗
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Zildjian 14" I Family Crash medium-thinZildjian62Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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Zildjian 14" A Custom Fast Crash Cymbal14" A-Series Fast Crash · Zildjian90Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
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Zildjian 14" A Custom Fast Crash Cymbal14" A-Custom Fast Crash · Zildjian90Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
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Zildjian 14" A Custom Fast Crash Cymbal14" K-Custom Fast Crash · Zildjian90Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
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Sabian 14" B8X Thin Crash Cymbal14" HHX Thin Crash · Sabian90Stable$378€339$378€339Check ↗
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Zildjian 14" A Custom EFX Crash Cymbal14" A-Custom EFX · Zildjian87Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
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Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash CymbalPST3 14" Crash · Paiste81Stable$54€48$54€48Check ↗
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Paiste PST5 14" Medium Crash '14Paiste64Stable$85€76$85€76Check ↗
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Paiste 14" Signature Fast Crash Cymbal14" Signature Fast Crash · Paiste83Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
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Meinl 14" Byzance Dual Multi-Trash Cymbal14" Byzance Dual Multi-Trash · Meinl79Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 39
Paiste 14" 101 Brass Crash Cymbal14" 101 Crash · Paiste74Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
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Zultan 14" Aja Blaze CrashZultan64Stable$73€65$73€65Check ↗
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Zultan 14" Aja CrashZultan64Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
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Paiste 14" Signature Full Crash Cymbal14" Signature Full Crash · Paiste74Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 43
Meinl 14" Byzance Traditional Thin Crash Cymbal14" Byzance Thin Crash · Meinl67Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 44
Meinl 14" Byzance Traditional Thin Crash Cymbal14" Byzance Thin Crash Brill. · Meinl67Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 45
Paiste 2002 Classic 14" CrashPaiste64Stable$240€215$240€215Check ↗
- 46
Sabian 14" Stratus ZeroSabian62Stable$307€275$307€275Check ↗
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Sabian 14" AAX AAXplosion CrashSabian62Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 48
Millenium 14" B20 CrashMillenium58Stable$40€36$40€36Check ↗
14" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 48 models we track, not a sample.
Median $211 — half of all 14" crash cymbals here cost less.
median of 48 models · 14"–14"
How to choose the best 14" crash cymbals
Wash vs. Stick Definition
Intermediate players need a crash that can produce a wash for swells and atmospheric fills, but still retain clear stick definition for patterns and accents. Too much wash and it'll get lost in the mix; too little and it'll sound brittle and lifeless.
Sustain & Decay
A 14" crash shouldn't ring forever, but it needs enough sustain to be musical. The decay should be controlled - it shouldn't abruptly cut off, but also not linger awkwardly, muddying the low-end.
Dynamic Range
Can the crash respond to a whisper of a stroke or a full-on power hit? A good crash offers a wide dynamic range, allowing for subtle nuances and powerful accents without completely losing control.
Bell Tone & Overall Character
The bell tone contributes significantly to the overall character of the crash. A darker bell can mellow out a bright-sounding crash, while a brighter bell can add sparkle. Finding the right balance is key for versatility.
Playability & Response
A crash shouldn't fight you. It should feel responsive and easy to control, allowing you to execute your ideas without having to muscle it. A stiff or unresponsive crash will limit your creativity.
Buying guide
So, you're past the beginner crash - the one that sounds like a strangled goose and rings forever with no meat. You're looking for something with a bit more finesse, a little more character, but still manageable. A 14" crash is a sweet spot for many intermediate players - enough volume to cut through a rehearsal without being overwhelming, and enough articulation to actually play something other than a loud 'bang.' Let's find you a crash that'll inspire some real playing.
Don't chase the 'loudest' crash - you'll end up with something that's hard to control. Entry-level 14" crashes often sacrifice lathing and hammering, resulting in a dull, lifeless sound. Spending a little more for a cymbal with better craftsmanship - clean lines, even lathing, and some thoughtful hammering - will make a huge difference.
Ultimately, listen to videos, read reviews, and if possible, try them out in person - a cymbal's character is best judged by ear, not by specs.
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 48 14" crash 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 14" crashes loud enough for a gigging situation?
Generally, yes, especially if you're not playing in a stadium. A well-chosen 14" can cut through a small to medium-sized club. However, if you're playing with a super-loud band, you might need something bigger or a stack of crashes.
What's the difference between a 'bright' and a 'dark' 14" crash?
'Bright' usually means more high-frequency content - a sparkly, cutting sound. 'Dark' means more mid-range and low-mid content - a warmer, more mellow tone. It's a spectrum, not a binary - most crashes sit somewhere in between.
I'm having trouble controlling my crashes. What can I do?
Check your technique! Are you hitting the cymbal too far out from the edge? Try muffling the edge with a bit of tape or a cymbal pad if it's still too wild. Also, consider a crash with a shorter sustain.
Should I get a 14" crash even if I already have a 16"?
Absolutely. A 14" offers a different sonic palette - more focused, more articulate. It's great for quieter passages, intricate patterns, and adding a touch of finesse to your playing. Think of it as a complement, not a replacement.
What's the deal with 'B8 Bronze' versus 'B20 Bronze'?
B8 is a cheaper alloy - it's easier to cast and therefore cheaper to produce. B20 is a more complex alloy (typically 80% copper, 20% tin, with small amounts of other metals) that tends to offer more complexity and warmth, but comes at a higher price. B8 can sound decent, but usually lacks the nuanced character of B20.
