AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 17" Crash Cymbals 2026

Q: Are 17" crashes good for beginners?

Absolutely. They're manageable in terms of volume and response, making them easier to control than larger crashes. Just avoid the absolute cheapest options - they'll be frustrating to play.

Q: Can I use a 17" crash as my primary crash?

Sure, especially if you're playing in a smaller band or need a more versatile crash. However, a larger crash (18" or 19") will give you that big, explosive sound for those really impactful moments.

Q: What's the difference between a 17" crash and a 17" thin crash?

'Thin' just means the cymbal is thinner overall, resulting in a lighter action, quicker response, and generally more volume. It'll have less sustain and a less complex wash than a medium or heavy 17" crash.

Q: I'm playing in a loud rock band - should I avoid 17" crashes?

Not necessarily! A heavier 17" crash can handle the volume. Just make sure it's well-made to avoid unwanted overtones that will muddy the mix. Consider a darker-sounding model to cut through the guitars.

Q: Are used 17" crashes a good deal?

Often, yes! You can find some serious deals on used cymbals, especially if you're willing to accept a few minor blemishes. Just listen to them carefully before you buy - cracks and keyholing are deal-breakers.

The top pick is Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal ($186). Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $141. Sabian 17" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 98 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 17, 2026

98models in this chart

9brands

$325median price

20price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 17" Crash Cymbals

Price

Skill level

Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Color Sound Crash Blue · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17 in 900 Color Sound Crash Blue is a solid, versatile cymbal that delivers a warm, full sound without being overly splashy. It's a great option for gigging drummers or students looking for a reliable and affordable crash with a distinctive look, especially in rock, pop, and lighter funk.
Pros
- Warm, full tone ideal for diverse musical styles.
- B8 bronze offers a good balance of durability and sound.
- The blue finish provides a unique aesthetic appeal.
Cons
- B8 bronze lacks the complexity of higher-end Paiste alloys.
- Sound can be slightly 'one-dimensional' compared to more complex cymbals.
84AudioFu
Index
- Demand73
- Lineup100
- Price67
- Specs100
- Maker100
↓ 5.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$197 · Aug 14$186 now

$186€165 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Sabian 17" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash Cymbal
17" FRX Crash · Sabian
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Sabian FRX 17 in crash is a real game-changer if you're tired of cymbals that overwhelm a mix. It's fantastic for modern pop, orchestral, or any genre where you need a crash that sits well without being overpowering - think film scores or quieter rock styles. The reduced frequencies create a unique, musical decay, making it a welcome addition to a discerning drummer's arsenal.
Pros
- B20 bronze construction delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Frequency reduction minimizes harshness, excellent for dense mixes.
- Compressed sound offers controlled volume without sacrificing sustain.
Cons
- Limited versatility; not suited for bright, explosive playing styles.
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
83AudioFu
Index
- Demand78
- Lineup63
- Price100
- Specs100
- Maker87
↓ 16.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$539 · Aug 14$449 now

$449€399 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Zildjian 17" K Series Sweet Crash Cymbal
17" K Sweet Crash · Zildjian
57 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Zildjian K Sweet 17 is a fantastic crash, offering a bright shimmer balanced by a warm, complex undertone. It's a great all-around choice for drummers seeking a refined, musical crash that’s not overly aggressive – perfect for session players and those wanting a sophisticated sound.
Pros
- Bell produces a bright, shimmering wash with excellent projection.
- The hammering pattern yields a complex, musical decay.
- K bronze alloy provides a warm, yet defined sonic character.
Cons
- The 'sweet' designation can be misleading – it’s not *extremely* mellow.
- Higher price point compared to Zildjian’s A or S series offerings.
82AudioFu
Index
- Demand100
- Lineup63
- Price42
- Specs100
- Maker79
↑ 2.6%since Aug 14
$438 · Aug 14$449 now

$449€399 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Zildjian 17" A Custom Crash Cymbal
17" Z Custom Crash · Zildjian
35 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Z Custom 17" crash is a real workhorse – it's got a fantastic, cutting sound that’ll really pop in a rock or pop setting. It's a little lighter than the older Z Customs, so it’s more responsive and feels great under the stick. If you’re looking for a bright, powerful crash that can handle a good beatdown without being brittle, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Bright, explosive sound cuts through dense mixes effectively.
- Original star hammering provides a unique, complex wash.
- Slightly thinner profile offers quicker response and feel.
Cons
- Can be overly bright for genres needing a darker, more mellow tone.
- The thinner weight might not suit players who hit very hard.
79AudioFu
Index
- Demand88
- Lineup63
- Price55
- Specs100
- Maker79
↓ 1.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$422 · Aug 14$415 now

$415€369 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal
PST7 17" Crash · Paiste
10 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size17"
The PST7 17in crash is a solid, dependable cymbal for beginners or players needing a bright, versatile crash on a budget. It's a great all-around choice for rock, pop, and lighter genres where a complex, dark sound isn't required – a real workhorse for gigging musicians.
Pros
- Bright, shimmering wash with a quick decay.
- CuSn8 bronze provides a warm, full fundamental.
- Well-latted for consistent response across the cymbal surface.
Cons
- Lacks the complexity and nuance of higher-end Paiste cymbals.
- The sustain, while quick, isn’t suited for extended, atmospheric washes.
76AudioFu
Index
- Demand59
- Lineup100
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$141 now

$141€125 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Zildjian 17" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal
17" A-Custom Projection Crash · Zildjian
27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The A-Custom Projection is a fantastic choice for drummers needing a crash that cuts through a loud mix – think rock, pop, or funk. Its fast response and increased volume make it really shine, though it's not the warmest sounding crash in the Zildjian lineup. It's a solid upgrade from entry-level cymbals, offering a pro-level feel and sound.
Pros
- Brilliant finish offers a bright, shimmering aesthetic appeal.
- A-Custom alloy delivers a fast response and clear, articulate sound.
- Projection design enhances volume and cut for louder stage environments.
Cons
- The brighter sound may not suit players seeking a darker, more washy tone.
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for budget-conscious drummers.
76AudioFu
Index
- Demand82
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker79
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$381 now

$381€339 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Zildjian 17" A Custom Fast Crash Cymbal
17" A-Custom Fast Crash · Zildjian
33 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17-inch A-Custom Fast Crash is a fantastic all-around crash for drummers seeking a quick response and a balanced tone. It's a great choice for modern pop, funk, and rock where you need a crisp, immediate crash without overwhelming the mix – it's a serious step up from entry-level cymbals.
Pros
- Brilliant finish enhances stage presence and aesthetics.
- Fast attack responds instantly, great for dynamic playing.
- A Custom alloy provides a warm, complex overtone blend.
Cons
- Brilliant finish is susceptible to finger marks and tarnishing.
- A Custom series sits in a premium-priced segment, a cost consideration.
76AudioFu
Index
- Demand87
- Lineup63
- Price36
- Specs100
- Maker79
↑ 4.8%since Aug 14
$375 · Aug 14$393 now

$393€349 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Zildjian 17" K Series Dark Thin Crash Cymbal
17" K-Series Dark Crash Thin · Zildjian
29 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Zildjian K-Series Dark Crash Thin is a beautifully voiced cymbal, offering a warm and complex tone that’s perfect for players seeking a sophisticated crash sound. It’s a fantastic choice for jazz, acoustic, and more subtle styles where a shorter, darker response is desired – it won’t overpower a quieter kit.
Pros
- Exceptional warmth and complexity due to B20 bronze alloy.
- Thin profile delivers a surprisingly quick and responsive feel.
- Dark, musical tone blends seamlessly across many genres.
Cons
- Sustain is shorter than many crash cymbals; less wash.
- Higher price point places it in a premium-priced category.
76AudioFu
Index
- Demand84
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker79
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$438 now

$438€389 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark Crash Cymbal
17" K-Custom Dark Crash · Zildjian
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17' K-Custom Dark Crash is a real character cymbal – it’s got that dry, almost muted sound that's perfect for genres like indie, alternative, and even quieter jazz settings. It’s not a loud, splashy crash, but if you're after a unique, textured accent that cuts through a mix without being overwhelming, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Exceptional 'trashy' character adds unique rhythmic textures.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a darker, more complex tone.
- Fast attack responds instantly for dynamic playing.
Cons
- Limited versatility; not ideal for bright, shimmering crash sounds.
- Can be a bit brittle if played aggressively.
76AudioFu
Index
- Demand83
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker79
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$448 now

$448€398 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Sabian 17" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash Cymbal
17" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash · Sabian
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Complex O-Zone is a real character cymbal – it's not your go-to for pristine, shimmering sounds. It's fantastic for rock, metal, and heavier styles where you want a gritty, explosive crash with a full body; think modern worship or progressive rock. It's a statement piece, not a workhorse.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Hammered bell provides a distinct, trashy shimmer and articulation.
- Six soundholes create a unique, controlled wash and sustain.
Cons
- The trashy sound might be too aggressive for very subtle, delicate playing.
- Complex O-Zone's character limits versatility across all genres.
76AudioFu
Index
- Demand78
- Lineup63
- Price57
- Specs100
- Maker87
↓ 2.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$517 · Aug 14$505 now

$505€449 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 98 17" crash cymbals

Sort

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal17" 900 Color Crash PRP · Paiste

Index 75↓ 1.7%
75
↓ 1.7%$197€175
$197€175Check ↗
12
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash Cymbal17" HHX Plosion Crash · Sabian

Index 75Stable
75
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
13
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal17" 900 Series Crash · Paiste

Index 74Stable
74
Stable$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
14
Paiste 17" Signature Full Crash Cymbal17" Signature Full Crash · Paiste

Index 74↓ 2.3%
74
↓ 2.3%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
15
Zildjian 17" K Custom Hybrid Crash Cymbal17" K-Custom Hybrid Crash · Zildjian

Index 74Stable
74
Stable$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
16
Paiste 17" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal17" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste

Index 73↓ 3.5%
73
↓ 3.5%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
17
Zildjian 17" A Custom Crash Cymbal17" A-Custom Crash · Zildjian

Index 72↑ 13.7%
72
↑ 13.7%$393€349
$393€349Check ↗
18
Sabian 17" AAX Thin Crash Cymbal17" AAX Thin Crash · Sabian

Index 72Stable
72
Stable$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
19
Paiste 17" Signature Fast Crash Cymbal17" Signature Fast Crash · Paiste

Index 72↓ 2.6%
72
↓ 2.6%$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
20
Sabian 17" HHX Evolution Crash Cymbal17" HHX Evolution Crash · Sabian

Index 72↓ 4.5%
72
↓ 4.5%$483€429
$483€429Check ↗
21
Sabian 17" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal17" HHX Complex Thin Crash · Sabian

Index 72Stable
72
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
22
Paiste 17" RUDE Thin Crash Cymbal17" Rude Thin Crash · Paiste

Index 71↓ 3.5%
71
↓ 3.5%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
23
Sabian 17" B8X Thin Crash Cymbal17" B8X Thin Crash · Sabian

Index 70Stable
70
Stable$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
24
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal17" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian

Index 70Stable
70
Stable$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
25
Paiste 17" Signature Power Crash Cymbal17" Signature Power Crash · Paiste

Index 70↓ 7.7%
70
↓ 7.7%$404€359
$404€359Check ↗
26
Zildjian 17" K Custom Special Dry Trash Crash Cymbal17" K Custom Special Dry Trash · Zildjian

Index 70Stable
70
Stable$448€398
$448€398Check ↗
27
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal17" 900 Color Heavy Crash BK · Paiste

Index 69↓ 3.4%
69
↓ 3.4%$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
28
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 201917" Classics Custom Med. Crash · Meinl

Index 69↑ 2.7%
69
↑ 2.7%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
29
Sabian 17" Stratus Crash Cymbal17" Stratus Crash · Sabian

Index 69Stable
69
Stable$354€315
$354€315Check ↗
30
Sabian 17" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal17" HHX Legacy Crash · Sabian

Index 69Stable
69
Stable$500€444
$500€444Check ↗
31
Zildjian 17" I Family Trash Crash Cymbal17" I Family Trash Crash · Zildjian

Index 68Stable
68
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
32
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal17" 900 Series Heavy Crash · Paiste

Index 68Stable
68
Stable$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
33
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 201917" Classics Custom Dark Crash · Meinl

Index 68↑ 5.6%
68
↑ 5.6%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
34
Zildjian 17" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17" A-Series Medium Thin Crash · Zildjian

Index 68↑ 6.7%
68
↑ 6.7%$359€319
$359€319Check ↗
35
Paiste 17" PST 8 Reflector Rock Crash Cymbal17" PST8 Reflector Rock Crash · Paiste

Index 67Stable
67
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
36
Paiste 17" Masters Dark Crash Cymbal17" Masters Dark Crash · Paiste

Index 67Stable
67
Stable$448€398
$448€398Check ↗
37
Meinl 17" Byzance Dark CrashMeinl

Index 65Stable
65
Stable$404€359
$404€359Check ↗
38
Meinl 17" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash17" Byzance Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 65↑ 2.2%
65
↑ 2.2%$424€377
$424€377Check ↗
39
Meinl 17" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17"Byzance J.Medium Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 65Stable
65
Stable$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
40
Paiste 17" Signature Mellow Crash Cymbal17" Signature Mellow Crash · Paiste

Index 64↓ 2.6%
64
↓ 2.6%$415€369
$415€369Check ↗
41
Meinl 17" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash17" Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash · Meinl

Index 64↑ 2.7%
64
↑ 2.7%$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
42
Meinl 17" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash17" Byzance Med. Thin Crash B. · Meinl

Index 63↑ 5.4%
63
↑ 5.4%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
43
Meinl 17" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17" Byzance Medium Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 62↑ 5.4%
62
↑ 5.4%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
44
Paiste 17" RUDE Wild Crash Cymbal17" Rude Wild Crash · Paiste

Index 61Stable
61
Stable$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
45
Meinl 17" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17" Pure Alloy Custom Crash · Meinl

Index 60↑ 7.2%
60
↑ 7.2%$336€299
$336€299Check ↗
46
Paiste 17" Thin Crash 602 SeriesPaiste

Index 60↓ 5.6%
60
↓ 5.6%$472€419
$472€419Check ↗
47
Paiste 17" 602 Mod. Essentials CrashPaiste

Index 59↓ 4.6%
59
↓ 4.6%$472€419
$472€419Check ↗
48
Meinl 17" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Crash17" Byzance Jazz Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 58↑ 2.7%
58
↑ 2.7%$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
49
Paiste 17" Traditional Thin CrashPaiste

Index 58↓ 1.1%
58
↓ 1.1%$500€444
$500€444Check ↗
50
Zultan 17" Aeon CrashZultan

Index 57↓ 4.6%
57
↓ 4.6%$235€209
$235€209Check ↗
51
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Brilliant Crash17" Xist Crash Brilliant · Istanbul Agop

Index 57↑ 7.7%
57
↑ 7.7%$269€239
$269€239Check ↗
52
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$291€259
$291€259Check ↗
53
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" Thin CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$320€284
$320€284Check ↗
54
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" Power CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
55
Sabian 17" AAX Crystal Thin Crash Cymbal17" AAX Crystal Thin Crash · Sabian

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$402€357
$402€357Check ↗
56
Paiste 17" Signature Dark Energy MK1Paiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$494€439
$494€439Check ↗
57
Paiste 17" 602 Medium CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
58
Istanbul Agop 17" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal17" Traditional Thin Crash · Istanbul Agop

Index 56↑ 7.2%
56
↑ 7.2%$336€299
$336€299Check ↗
59
Sabian 17" AAX AAXplosion CrashSabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
60
Meinl 17" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Crash17" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Cr · Meinl

Index 56↑ 5.4%
56
↑ 5.4%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
61
Sabian 17" HHX Evolution Effect CrashSabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$483€429
$483€429Check ↗
62
Sabian 17" HHX HHXtrem Crash trad.Sabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
63
Sabian 17" HHX HHXtrem CrashSabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
64
Sabian 17" Artisan Thin CrashSabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$692€615
$692€615Check ↗
65
Zultan 17" Aja CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$96€85
$96€85Check ↗
66
Zultan 17" Aja Blaze CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$100€89
$100€89Check ↗
67
Zultan 17" Alaris CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
68
Zultan 17" Dune CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
69
Zultan 17" Heritage CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$280€249
$280€249Check ↗
70
Zildjian 17" K' Constantinople Susp.Zildjian

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$591€525
$591€525Check ↗
71
Ufip 17" Class Series Crash LightUfip

Index 54↓ 2.1%
54
↓ 2.1%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
72
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Black Bell CrashIstanbul Mehmet

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
73
Zultan 17" Rock Beat CrashZultan

Index 53↑ 6.3%
53
↑ 6.3%$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
74
Zultan 17" Caz CrashZultan

Index 53↑ 5.9%
53
↑ 5.9%$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
75
Meinl Pure Alloy 17" Medium CrashMeinl

Index 53↑ 5.3%
53
↑ 5.3%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
76
Zultan 17" Dark Matter Holey CrashZultan

Index 52↑ 6.7%
52
↑ 6.7%$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
77
Zultan 17" Raw CrashZultan

Index 52↑ 6.7%
52
↑ 6.7%$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
78
Zultan 17" Crash Dark MatterZultan

Index 52↑ 6.7%
52
↑ 6.7%$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
79
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Dark Crash Cymbal17" Dark Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 52↑ 1.5%
52
↑ 1.5%$303€269
$303€269Check ↗
80
Istanbul Agop 17" Signature Crash17" Agop Signature Crash · Istanbul Agop

Index 52↑ 6.5%
52
↑ 6.5%$388€345
$388€345Check ↗
81
Ufip 17" Bionic Series CrashUfip

Index 51↑ 3.7%
51
↑ 3.7%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
82
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Samatya Crash Cymbal17" Crash Samatya Series · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 51↑ 9.1%
51
↑ 9.1%$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
83
Ufip 17" Blast Extra Dry CrashUfip

Index 51↑ 3.2%
51
↑ 3.2%$359€319
$359€319Check ↗
84
Ufip 17" Blast Series CrashUfip

Index 51↑ 3.2%
51
↑ 3.2%$359€319
$359€319Check ↗
85
Zultan 17" Z-Series CrashZultan

Index 50↑ 11.8%
50
↑ 11.8%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
86
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Dry Dark CrashIstanbul Agop

Index 50↑ 5.9%
50
↑ 5.9%$264€235
$264€235Check ↗
87
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal17" Thin Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 50↓ 2.3%
50
↓ 2.3%$291€259
$291€259Check ↗
88
Istanbul Agop 17" Traditional Dark CrashIstanbul Agop

Index 50↑ 7.2%
50
↑ 7.2%$336€299
$336€299Check ↗
89
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Crash IMC NaturalIstanbul Mehmet

Index 49↑ 11.2%
49
↑ 11.2%$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
90
Zultan 17" F5 CrashZultan

Index 48↑ 20.1%
48
↑ 20.1%$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
91
Zultan 17" Q CrashZultan

Index 48↑ 20.1%
48
↑ 20.1%$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
92
Masterwork 17" Custom CrashMasterwork

Index 48↑ 5.6%
48
↑ 5.6%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
93
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Turk Crash Cymbal17" Crash Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 48↑ 1.5%
48
↑ 1.5%$303€269
$303€269Check ↗
94
Masterwork 17" Resonant CrashMasterwork

Index 47↑ 7.4%
47
↑ 7.4%$212€188
$212€188Check ↗
95
Ufip 17" Class Series Crash MediumUfip

Index 47↑ 12.0%
47
↑ 12.0%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
96
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Dark ION CrashIstanbul Agop

Index 46↑ 17.2%
46
↑ 17.2%$276€245
$276€245Check ↗
97
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal17" Paper Thin Crash Tradit. · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 45↑ 8.8%
45
↑ 8.8%$291€259
$291€259Check ↗
98
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Medium Crash Cymbal17" Medium Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 44↑ 11.3%
44
↑ 11.3%$298€265
$298€265Check ↗

17" Crash Cymbals by the numbers

Measured across all 100 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $325 — half of all 17" crash cymbals here cost less.

<$100$100–150$150–200$200–300$300–400$400–500$500+

Size17"

median of 100 models · 17"–17"

How to choose the best 17" crash cymbals

Weight

Heavier 17" crashes tend to have more sustain and a fuller, more complex wash, good for rock or heavier styles. Lighter ones will be quicker and more responsive, ideal for jazz or more delicate playing. Too heavy, and you're fighting the cymbal; too light, and it'll just fizz.

Bell Size & Profile

A larger bell generally means more volume and a more prominent "ping." The bell profile (how sharply it tapers) affects the initial attack - a more aggressive profile will give a quicker, brighter response. Think about what kind of initial articulation you need.

Hammering & Lathing

Less hammering results in a brighter, more washy sound. More hammering creates a darker, more trashy tone. Lathing (the grooves cut into the cymbal) affects the cymbal's responsiveness and sustain - wider lathing generally means more sustain, but can also introduce unwanted overtones if not done well.

Metal Alloy

B20 bronze is the standard for a reason-it offers a good balance of warmth and brightness. B8 bronze is cheaper and generally brighter and more brittle. Be wary of anything claiming to be 'special alloy' without clear details - it's often a marketing gimmick.

Overtone Management

A good 17" crash will have controlled overtones, not a chaotic mess of ringing frequencies. Cheap cymbals often have poorly managed overtones that make them sound muddy and indistinct in a band setting. This is where the skill of the cymbal maker really shines.

Buying guide

Okay, so you're hunting for a 17" crash? Smart move. They're the sweet spot - big enough to get a decent wash and sustain, but small enough to articulate clearly and not completely bury your kit. It's the go-to size for a lot of players needing a versatile crash without the overwhelming volume of a 18" or bigger. Let's break down what to look for so you don't end up with a clangy mess.

Seventeen-inch crashes are a popular size, so you'll find a wide range of prices. The cheap ones? They'll cut corners on hammering and lathing, leading to a thin, brittle sound with uncontrolled overtones.

Spending a bit more gets you better alloy and more attention to detail - that's where you start to hear the difference. Don't chase the loudest crash; chase the one that articulates clearly and complements your kit's overall sound.

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 100 17" 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 17" crashes good for beginners?

Absolutely. They're manageable in terms of volume and response, making them easier to control than larger crashes. Just avoid the absolute cheapest options - they'll be frustrating to play.

Can I use a 17" crash as my primary crash?

Sure, especially if you're playing in a smaller band or need a more versatile crash. However, a larger crash (18" or 19") will give you that big, explosive sound for those really impactful moments.

What's the difference between a 17" crash and a 17" thin crash?

'Thin' just means the cymbal is thinner overall, resulting in a lighter action, quicker response, and generally more volume. It'll have less sustain and a less complex wash than a medium or heavy 17" crash.

I'm playing in a loud rock band - should I avoid 17" crashes?

Not necessarily! A heavier 17" crash can handle the volume. Just make sure it's well-made to avoid unwanted overtones that will muddy the mix. Consider a darker-sounding model to cut through the guitars.

Are used 17" crashes a good deal?

Often, yes! You can find some serious deals on used cymbals, especially if you're willing to accept a few minor blemishes. Just listen to them carefully before you buy - cracks and keyholing are deal-breakers.