Best 16" Crash Cymbals Under $300 2026
Alright, so you're in the market for a 16" crash and you're not trying to mortgage the house for it? Smart move. A good 16" crash is a workhorse - versatile enough for everything from quiet jazz gigs to louder rock rehearsals, and it doesn't need to cost a fortune to get something decent. Let's break down some solid options under $300 that won't leave you wanting.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 16" crash cymbals in 2026 are Istanbul Agop 16" Cindy Blackman OM Crash (top pick), Istanbul Agop 16" Agop Signature Crash for tighter budgets, and Istanbul Agop 16" Traditional Medium Crash for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $137–$295, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
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1.0/5
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5/10
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Istanbul Agop 16" Cindy Blackman OM Crash
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Live Performance
Punk
Rock
Key Feature:
This Cindy Blackman OM crash is a beautifully voiced cymbal, offering a quick, controlled response and a dark, musical tone. It’s ideal for players needing articulate crashes in modern, funk, or rock settings—anyone who appreciates a refined and expressive crash sound will love this.
PROS
- • Exceptional responsiveness for quick, nuanced cymbal work.
- • B20 bronze delivers a complex, musical dark timbre.
- • Cindy Blackman’s signature voicing provides a modern, controlled wash.
- • Hammered texture enhances articulation and visual appeal.
CONS
- • The thinness makes it potentially fragile under heavy hitters.
- • Dark, dry sound may not suit brighter musical styles.
- • Price point positions it as a premium investment for serious players.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 382807
$296
#2
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
Detail:
2/10
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7/10
Istanbul Agop 16" Agop Signature Crash
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Rock
Hard Rock
Punk
Key Feature:
This Agop Signature 16 in crash is a beautifully crafted cymbal offering a sophisticated, darker tone. It's ideal for drummers playing jazz, acoustic music, or anyone wanting a more nuanced crash sound – not a huge, splashy one. The hand-hammering really gives it a unique voice.
PROS
- • Warm, dark tone offers excellent musical complexity.
- • Thin profile provides a quick, responsive feel and wash.
- • B20 bronze construction ensures durability and tonal richness.
- • Hand-hammering creates unique sonic character and responsiveness.
CONS
- • Limited projection makes it unsuitable for very loud, aggressive styles.
- • Dry sound might not appeal to those seeking bright, shimmering crashes.
- • Relatively delicate; requires careful handling to avoid damage.
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5/10
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7/10
Art. 435670
$296
#3
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Istanbul Agop 16" Traditional Medium Crash
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Rock
Live Performance
Metal
Key Feature:
This Istanbul Agop 16" Traditional Medium Crash is a seriously versatile workhorse. It's got that classic Turkish warmth and responsiveness, making it perfect for jazz, folk, or even a more mellow rock setup. The hand-hammering gives it a real depth of tone you won't find in mass-produced cymbals.
PROS
- • B20 bronze construction delivers a warm, complex tonal palette.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced sonic character and responsive feel.
- • Traditional finish enhances the cymbal's natural resonance and projection.
- • Medium weight provides a controlled crash with a manageable sustain.
CONS
- • Traditional finish may require more frequent cleaning to maintain appearance.
- • Medium sustain might be limiting for players needing long, shimmering crashes.
- • The Traditional series leans towards a darker tone, not ideal for brighter genres.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 607452
$274
#4
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Istanbul Mehmet 16" Black Sea 1623 Crash
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Metal
Rock
Punk
Key Feature:
The Black Sea 1623 is a beautifully crafted crash, perfect for drummers seeking a nuanced, darker tone. It's got a really lovely, almost vintage feel thanks to the hand-hammering, and responds incredibly well to subtle dynamics – great for jazz, acoustic, or anything where you need a lot of expression. Just be mindful of its thinner profile if you hit hard.
PROS
- • Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a warm, organic feel.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a dark, dry, and controlled sound.
- • The thinner profile provides quick response and excellent sensitivity.
- • Tamdeger’s design honors traditional Turkish cymbal making techniques.
CONS
- • The dark, dry sound might not suit brighter musical styles like funk.
- • The thinness, while responsive, makes it less durable for aggressive playing.
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category for a 16in crash.
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1.0/5
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 468518
$263
#5
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1.0/5
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 16" Aeon FX Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B25 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Hard Rock
Punk
Live Performance
Key Feature:
The Zultan Aeon FX is a surprisingly expressive crash. The B25 bronze gives it a unique warmth and sustain that cuts through a mix nicely. This is a great option for drummers looking for a splashy, dynamic crash without the premium price tag of some top-tier brands.
PROS
- • B25 bronze offers a warm, complex tone lacking in typical B20 alloys.
- • Hand-hammering creates a responsive, lively wash with excellent articulation.
- • Unlathed bell delivers a raw, immediate attack and enhanced harmonic content.
- • Longer decay provides a lush, shimmering tail ideal for dynamic playing.
CONS
- • B25 alloys can be more brittle than B20, requiring careful handling.
- • FX cymbals, by design, are less versatile than traditional crashes.
- • The raw, unlathed bell might sound too 'dry' for some players' preferences.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 540996
$241
#6
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1.0/5
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5/10
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4/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 16" Dune Trash Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Hard Rock
Rock
Live Performance
Key Feature:
The Zultan Dune is a seriously cool, specialized crash. It's not your go-to main crash, but if you're after a unique, aggressive trash sound for heavier rock, metal, or experimental music, this delivers a lot of character for the price. It’s a fantastic accent cymbal to add some grit to your kit.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a complex, shimmering undertone.
- • Deep hammering creates a uniquely trashy, fast decay.
- • Polished bell offers a surprisingly articulate, cutting shimmer.
- • Turkish hand-hammering ensures quality and unique sonic character.
CONS
- • Limited versatility; excels as a specialized effect cymbal.
- • The 'trashy' sound might be too aggressive for some genres.
- • Hammering can introduce minor inconsistencies in tone across the cymbal.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 474427
$241
#7
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1.0/5
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5/10
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4/10
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8/10
Zultan 16" Dune Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Rock
Hard Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
The Zultan Dune is a seriously cool crash – it’s got that raw, almost frantic energy that’s perfect for rock, metal, and heavier styles. It cuts through a dense mix without being overwhelming, and the build quality is solid. If you're looking for a crash with a distinctive voice that isn’t your typical bright, splashy sound, this is a great pick.
PROS
- • Exceptional B20 bronze tone; dry, fast decay prevents cymbal clutter.
- • Hand-hammering creates a nuanced, complex sonic character.
- • Polished bell delivers a focused, articulate wash when desired.
- • Turkish production quality ensures consistent craftsmanship and durability.
CONS
- • 'Thrashy' sound might not suit all genres, like orchestral or jazz.
- • Limited versatility; excels in rock and metal, less ideal for quieter styles.
- • Hammer marks, while characteristic, might not appeal to those preferring pristine finishes.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 450097
$208
#8
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 16" Z-Series Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Live Performance
Hard Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
The Zultan Z-Series 16 in crash is a surprisingly capable cymbal for the price. It's got a warm, responsive sound that cuts through a mix well, and the hand-hammering adds a touch of character. This would be a great addition for gigging drummers or students looking for a reliable, affordable crash.
PROS
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, musical wash of sound.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced sonic textures and a responsive feel.
- • Short decay allows for quick, clean patterns and intricate cymbal work.
- • Versatile enough to handle everything from jazz to heavier rock styles.
CONS
- • The thinner profile may not hold up to extremely aggressive playing.
- • While versatile, it lacks the extreme projection of heavier, more expensive cymbals.
- • The 'unusual look' of the Z-series may not appeal to all drummers.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 278618
$175
#9
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 16" Caz Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Live Performance
Metal
Rock
Key Feature:
This Zultan Caz crash is a real gem for jazz and fusion drummers. The B20 bronze and hand-hammering give it a beautifully warm, articulate sound, and the thin profile makes it incredibly responsive. It's a well-built, affordable option that delivers a surprisingly sophisticated tone.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Hand-hammering provides nuanced overtones and a traditional feel.
- • Thin profile offers a quick, responsive crash response ideal for jazz.
- • Polished finish enhances brilliance and visual appeal without being overly bright.
CONS
- • The lighter weight may lack sustain for heavier rock or metal styles.
- • Hand-hammering can introduce slight inconsistencies in sound across cymbals.
- • While versatile, it excels primarily in jazz/fusion; limited for others.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 278663
$164
#10
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 16" Dark Matter Splatter Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Rock
Hard Rock
Live Performance
Key Feature:
The Zultan Dark Matter Splatter is a surprisingly versatile crash. It’s got a warm core with a splashy, almost trashy shimmer thanks to the splatter pattern – perfect for modern rock, indie, or anyone wanting a unique crash that cuts through a dense mix without being overly bright. The short decay makes it easy to control and layer with other cymbals.
PROS
- • B20 bronze provides a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Splatter pattern adds unique wash and shimmering high frequencies.
- • Hand-hammering delivers a responsive, nuanced playing feel.
- • Short decay allows for quick, articulate cymbal patterns.
CONS
- • Splatter design might not suit all musical genres or preferences.
- • Dark Matter line leans towards a darker sound; lacks bright, cutting qualities.
- • Perforations can make the cymbal slightly more susceptible to cracking.
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 474865
$164
#11
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1.0/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
9/10
Zultan 16" Raw Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Rock
Live Performance
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Zultan Raw Crash is a really interesting cymbal. It's got that raw, unlathed vibe that cuts through a dense mix with a really focused sound – perfect for drummers in jazz, neo-soul, or anyone looking for a darker, more vintage crash tone. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a unique sound without needing a premium-priced flagship model.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates unique sonic character and responsiveness.
- • Raw finish minimizes overtones, providing a focused, dry crash.
- • Compact sound offers excellent stick definition and articulation.
CONS
- • Raw finish can be prone to markings and patina quickly.
- • Limited versatility; excels in darker musical contexts, less bright.
- • The 'dry' sound might not suit all playing styles or genres.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 383199
$153
#12
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
9/10
Masterwork 16" Troy Traditional Crash
by
Masterwork
Size
16"
Alloy
B25 bronze
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Aggressive Playing
Live Performance
Rock
Key Feature:
This Troy Traditional crash is a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a warm, vintage-inspired sound. It's beautifully hand-hammered, offering a really expressive response perfect for jazz, blues, and quieter rock styles – it's a great way to add some character without a huge investment.
PROS
- • B25 bronze delivers warm, complex overtones and sustain.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced response and pleasing wash.
- • Traditional finish minimizes stickiness, promoting a clean sound.
- • Lighter weight allows for quick, expressive cymbal work and quiet playing.
CONS
- • The thinner profile may not hold up to aggressive playing styles.
- • Traditional finish requires more careful maintenance to prevent oxidation.
- • Sound leans towards vintage, limiting versatility in modern, bright genres.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 611372
$138
#13
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Istanbul Agop 16" Custom Series SE Jazz Cr.
Size
16"
Hammering
Hand-hammered
Live Performance
Hard Rock
Punk
Key Feature:
This Istanbul Agop Custom SE Jazz Crash is a beautifully crafted cymbal perfect for jazz, small ensemble, and studio work. The dry, articulate response cuts through a mix without being overpowering, offering a refined and controlled sound. It’s a great choice for drummers seeking a premium-priced, focused crash.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and musical shimmer.
- • Hand-hammering creates a responsive, nuanced wash and stick definition.
- • The short decay is ideal for clean, articulate jazz and lighter styles.
- • Traditional finish enhances the cymbal's natural resonance and projection.
CONS
- • The dry sound might lack the splashy brightness some players prefer.
- • Limited versatility; not ideal for heavier rock or metal applications.
- • The Special Edition designation might imply slightly higher price point compared to standard Customs.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 482360
$296
#14
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
7/10
Sabian 16" XSR Fast Crash
by
Sabian
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Metal
Punk
Live Performance
Key Feature:
The Sabian XSR Fast Crash is a fantastic option for drummers needing quick, articulate crashes – think fast jazz, fusion, or modern pop. Its thin profile and fast decay make it incredibly responsive, and the B20 bronze delivers a surprisingly full sound for its size. It’s a great upgrade for intermediate players looking to refine their cymbal sound.
PROS
- • Fast decay offers quick, clean transitions in complex rhythms.
- • B20 bronze provides a warm, musical tone with good sustain.
- • Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal on stage.
- • Thin profile allows for sensitive response and easy manipulation.
CONS
- • Limited versatility; excels in fast crashes, less ideal for wash.
- • Higher price point compared to entry-level crash cymbals.
- • Brilliant finish can be prone to finger smudging and patina.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 383174
$285
#15
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Zultan 16" Heritage Crash
by
Zultan
Size
16"
Alloy
B20 bronze
Rock
Hard Rock
Live Performance
Key Feature:
The Zultan Heritage 16in crash is a solid choice for drummers seeking a classic, musical sound without a premium-priced tag. It's got a lovely warmth and complexity that works well for a range of styles, and the hand-hammering gives it a real character. Great for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a dependable, expressive crash.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex overtone profile.
- • Hand-hammering creates a uniquely responsive and musical wash.
- • Well-balanced weight provides a clear, defined pitch and sustain.
- • Versatile enough for various genres, from jazz to rock.
CONS
- • The Heritage series might lack the extreme brightness of some modern crashes.
- • The hand-hammered nature can introduce slight inconsistencies in tone.
- • Might feel a bit heavy for players preferring very light, splashy crashes.
⭐
1.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 422419
$274
Every 16" crash cymbals that matches
110 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
16" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 110 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $186
from $65 to $296
Size
median 16"
from 16" to 16" · 110 models
Alloy
B20, B12, B8
most common · 44 models
Hammering
hand
most common · 14 models
How to Choose the Best 16" Crash Cymbals
1
Sustain
In this price range, expect shorter sustain compared to pricier crashes. We're looking for enough sustain to make a statement, but don't expect it to ring forever. Too little, and it's just a 'thwack'; too much, and it'll clash with the kit.
2
Wash
A lot of cheaper crashes have a muddy, uncontrolled wash. We're prioritizing crashes that cut through the mix, especially important if you're playing with a loud band or recording.
3
Articulation
How clearly and cleanly the cymbal responds to your stick. We're looking for a crisp, defined attack, not a dull thud. This affects everything from quiet ghost notes to powerful accents.
4
Timbre/Tone
The overall tonal character - is it bright and sparkly, dark and mellow, or somewhere in between? This is subjective, but we'll describe the specific tonal qualities we hear. Be prepared for compromises - you won't get the complexity of a Zildjian A Custom.
5
Build Quality/Lathing
Cheap cymbals often have uneven lathing or sloppy hammering, which affects the overall sound and durability. We're looking for something that feels reasonably well-made, even if it's not perfect.
Buying Guide
At this budget, you're trading off something. Don't expect a bell that sings with perfect clarity or a complex wash. Many will have a more basic, direct sound. Watch out for overly bright, harsh tones - those can be fatiguing on stage. Consider the overall genre you play - a brighter crash works well for funk, while a darker crash might suit jazz better. Don't be afraid of B-stock - it's often a great way to save money on a perfectly usable cymbal.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 110 16" crash cymbals from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually, B-stock means minor cosmetic blemishes - scratches, slight discoloration. They sound the same, and you save a chunk of cash. Just check the description carefully to see what the 'blemish' actually is.
It's tough. You'll find some that try to be, but often they're just crashes with a slightly thicker profile. True crash/rides require more complex hammering and alloy blends, which drive up the cost.
Bronze (usually B20 bronze) is the standard for quality cymbals, offering more complex overtones and a richer sound. Brass cymbals are cheaper, brighter, and tend to have a more basic, less nuanced tone. Stick with bronze if you can.
It depends on the band, but a single 16" crash might be a bit quiet. Consider pairing it with a larger crash or using a heavier stick to get more volume. It's a great all-around crash, though.
They can be, but be wary. Often, the cymbals are very basic and don't sound great. If you're just starting out and need a full kit, a pack can get you going, but be prepared to upgrade the crashes as soon as you can.
