AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 17" Crash Cymbals for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal ($140). Zultan 17" Aja Crash gives you the most for the money at $95. Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 98 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- 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.
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$140 now$140€125 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size17"
The Zultan Aja is a surprisingly solid crash for the money. It's got a bright, upfront sound with a decent fade, making it a great option for beginner to intermediate drummers or anyone needing a budget-friendly cymbal for a splashy, energetic feel. It’s a real workhorse, perfect for rock, pop, and lighter genres.
Pros
- Bright, responsive stick attack delivers immediate impact and clarity.
- The B20 bronze alloy provides a warm, harmonically rich undertone.
- Harmonically balanced fade offers a surprisingly controlled decay for its price.
Cons
- Lacks the complexity and nuanced wash of higher-end cymbal alloys.
- The thinner profile may not hold up as well to aggressive playing styles.
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- Size17"
This handcrafted cymbal hits hard but fades gently. Made from B20 bronze, it sounds powerful yet controlled. It fits drummers who want a punchy crash without the harsh edge.
Pros
- Handmade from premium B20 bronze alloy
- Delivers explosive attack with soft decay
- Offers a unique blend of power and control
Cons
- No specific weight listed for handling
- Finish type is not described in text
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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.
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$184 now$184€165 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 17" I Family Trash Crash Cymbal
17" I Family Trash Crash · Zildjian
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This I Family Trash Crash delivers a raw, aggressive sound perfect for rock, metal, and industrial styles. It's a great accent cymbal for adding grit and excitement to your kit, especially if you want a vintage, beaten-up vibe without the extreme expense of a truly vintage piece.
Pros
- B8 bronze provides a surprisingly robust and complex trashy tone.
- Medium-thin weight offers quick response and easy playability for accents.
- Traditional lathing delivers a raw, unpolished aesthetic and sound.
Cons
- The B8 alloy limits sustain compared to higher-end bronze cymbals.
- The 'trash' character can be overly aggressive for subtle, nuanced playing.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" PST 8 Reflector Rock Crash Cymbal
17" PST8 Reflector Rock Crash · Paiste
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Paiste PST8 Reflector Rock Crash is a solid workhorse—it cuts through a loud band with a bright, explosive response. It's a fantastic, budget-friendly option for rock, metal, and any genre needing a powerful crash that’s built to handle heavy use. If you need a reliable crash that sounds bigger than its price tag, this is it.
Pros
- B8 bronze provides a warm, responsive core tone.
- Reflector finish delivers a bright, cutting shimmer.
- Well-suited for rock, metal, and louder musical styles.
Cons
- The 'Reflector' finish can be prone to patina and require more cleaning.
- Sound may lack the nuanced complexity of higher-end Paiste lines.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Series Crash · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17 in Paiste 900 Series Crash is a solid, reliable workhorse. It’s a great all-around cymbal that won’t break the bank, perfect for gigging musicians or students needing a dependable crash without a super-expensive price tag. The warm tone sits nicely in a mix and is surprisingly versatile.
Pros
- B8 bronze delivers a warm, controlled, and musical response.
- Universally appealing sound suits a wide range of musical styles.
- The slightly darkened finish enhances visual appeal and character.
Cons
- B8 bronze isn’t as complex or vibrant as higher-grade alloys.
- The 17 in size might feel small for louder, more aggressive playing.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Color Crash PRP · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Paiste 900 Color Crash PRP is a solid, versatile crash for drummers needing a warm, full sound without a premium price tag. It’s a great option for gigging musicians, students, or anyone wanting a reliable, attractive crash that cuts through a mix. The purple finish gives it a unique look, too.
Pros
- Warm, full tone ideal for a wide range of musical styles
- B8 bronze offers a good balance of durability and sound
- The 'Purple' color adds visual flair without impacting the sound
Cons
- B8 bronze isn’t the highest-end alloy; won't have the complexity of Signature or R20
- The sustain, while long, isn't as infinite as premium Paiste lines
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$196 now$196€175 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Color Heavy Crash BK · Paiste
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17 in Paiste 900 Color Heavy Crash BK is a workhorse for rock, metal, and heavier styles. It's got a big, full sound and a solid feel that cuts through a mix, but be aware it’s not a delicate cymbal—perfect for drummers needing impact and projection.
Pros
- Rich, warm tone ideal for heavier music genres
- The B8 bronze offers a robust, durable construction
- Heavy weight provides a substantial, controlled crash
Cons
- The black finish can be prone to finger smudging and marking
- Limited versatility; not ideal for very subtle, nuanced playing
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Series Heavy Crash · Paiste
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17 in Paiste 900 Heavy Crash is a solid workhorse—great for rock, pop, and heavier genres where you need a big, impactful sound. It's not the most nuanced cymbal out there, but it's reliable, sounds good, and delivers a satisfying crash for a reasonable price. Perfect for gigging drummers or anyone needing a dependable, powerful crash.
Pros
- B8 bronze provides a warm, full tone characteristic of the 900 series.
- Heavy weight delivers a powerful crash with substantial sustain.
- The slightly darkened finish enhances the visual appeal and lathing detail.
Cons
- The heavier weight might be fatiguing for players with smaller builds.
- The 900 series’ bright edge can be a little harsh in quieter settings.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 98 17" crash cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Sabian 17" B8X Thin Crash Cymbal17" B8X Thin Crash · Sabian71Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 12
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 201917" Classics Custom Dark Crash · Meinl70Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 13
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 201917" Classics Custom Med. Crash · Meinl70Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 14
Zultan 17" Raw CrashZultan55Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 15
Zultan 17" Dark Matter Holey CrashZultan52↑ 6.7%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
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Zultan 17" Crash Dark MatterZultan52↑ 6.7%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 17
Zultan 17" Rock Beat CrashZultan55Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 18
Zultan 17" Caz CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
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Zultan 17" F5 CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 20
Zultan 17" Q CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 21
Zultan 17" Z-Series CrashZultan55Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 22
Zultan 17" Alaris CrashZultan55Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
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Zultan 17" Dune CrashZultan55Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 24
Masterwork 17" Resonant CrashMasterwork50Stable$210€188$210€188Check ↗
- 25
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Crash IMC NaturalIstanbul Mehmet54Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 26
Masterwork 17" Custom CrashMasterwork50Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 27
Zildjian 17" K Series Sweet Crash Cymbal17" K Sweet Crash · Zildjian83Stable$446€399$446€399Check ↗
- 28
Zildjian 17" A Custom Crash Cymbal17" A-Custom Crash · Zildjian79Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 29
Zildjian 17" A Custom Crash Cymbal17" Z Custom Crash · Zildjian79Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
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Zildjian 17" A Custom Fast Crash Cymbal17" A-Custom Fast Crash · Zildjian78Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
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Zildjian 17" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal17" A-Custom Projection Crash · Zildjian77Stable$379€339$379€339Check ↗
- 32
Sabian 17" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash Cymbal17" FRX Crash · Sabian76↓ 7.2%$435€389$435€389Check ↗
- 33
Zildjian 17" K Series Dark Thin Crash Cymbal17" K-Series Dark Crash Thin · Zildjian76Stable$435€389$435€389Check ↗
- 34
Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark Crash Cymbal17" K-Custom Dark Crash · Zildjian76Stable$445€398$445€398Check ↗
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Paiste 17" Signature Full Crash Cymbal17" Signature Full Crash · Paiste74↓ 2.3%$435€389$435€389Check ↗
- 36
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash Cymbal17" HHX Plosion Crash · Sabian74Stable$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 37
Sabian 17" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash Cymbal17" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash · Sabian74↓ 2.2%$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 38
Zildjian 17" K Custom Hybrid Crash Cymbal17" K-Custom Hybrid Crash · Zildjian73Stable$435€389$435€389Check ↗
- 39
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal17" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian72Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 40
Zildjian 17" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17" A-Series Medium Thin Crash · Zildjian72Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 41
Sabian 17" AAX Thin Crash Cymbal17" AAX Thin Crash · Sabian72Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 42
Sabian 17" HHX Evolution Crash Cymbal17" HHX Evolution Crash · Sabian72Stable$479€429$479€429Check ↗
- 43
Sabian 17" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal17" HHX Complex Thin Crash · Sabian72Stable$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 44
Paiste 17" Signature Fast Crash Cymbal17" Signature Fast Crash · Paiste71Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 45
Zildjian 17" K Custom Special Dry Trash Crash Cymbal17" K Custom Special Dry Trash · Zildjian71Stable$445€398$445€398Check ↗
- 46
Paiste 17" RUDE Thin Crash Cymbal17" Rude Thin Crash · Paiste70Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 47
Paiste 17" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal17" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste70Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 48
Sabian 17" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal17" HHX Legacy Crash · Sabian70Stable$496€444$496€444Check ↗
- 49
Sabian 17" Stratus Crash Cymbal17" Stratus Crash · Sabian69Stable$352€315$352€315Check ↗
- 50
Paiste 17" Signature Power Crash Cymbal17" Signature Power Crash · Paiste67Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
17" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 100 models we track, not a sample.
Median $323 — half of all 17" crash cymbals here cost less.
median of 100 models · 17"–17"
How to choose the best 17" crash cymbals
Wash vs. Stick Definition
A beginner needs a crash that's forgiving; too much stick definition makes it sound harsh when you're still learning to control your hits. A good wash helps mask those early mistakes and creates a fuller sound. Think smooth, not brittle.
Sustain
Too short a sustain and the crash disappears; too long and it's uncontrollable. We're looking for a balanced sustain that allows for a clear sound without ringing forever and getting in the way of the next beat.
Volume
A 17" crash needs to cut through a band, but it shouldn't be so loud it's overwhelming. Beginner drummers need something that can be heard in a rehearsal setting without needing a hearing aid afterward.
Playability
How easy is it to control the cymbal? A stiff cymbal is a nightmare when you're just starting out. We're prioritizing cymbals that respond well to a range of dynamics, even soft ones.
Overall Tone
Bright, dark, warm, trashy... all descriptors that can be confusing. For beginners, a generally warmer, more balanced tone is easier to work with and less prone to sounding "wrong".
Buying guide
Alright, so you're starting out on drums - awesome! A 17" crash is a sweet spot for beginners; it's big enough to get a decent wash and volume, but not so massive you're wrestling with it. Forget the huge, shimmering 20" rides everyone else is playing for now. This list will guide you to a crash that's forgiving, sounds decent, and won't break the bank while you're learning to control your dynamics.
Don't chase the flashy finish or the brand name. Entry-level cymbals often cut corners on the alloy - they might be brass, but not the best brass. Look for a cymbal that's responsive and sounds decent, even when played quietly.
Spending a little more for a used, higher-quality cymbal from a reputable brand is almost always a better investment than a brand-new, cheap one.
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 bronze cymbals really worth the extra money?
For a beginner? Probably not initially. Bronze (B8, B10, etc.) generally offer a more complex and nuanced sound, but you won't appreciate that complexity until you have more control. Brass cymbals are fine to start with and allow you to develop your technique.
What's the difference between B8 and B10 bronze?
B10 is generally considered a slightly higher grade of bronze alloy, resulting in a more refined sound and potentially a bit more durability. The difference isn't massive, though, and a good B8 cymbal can sound great.
Should I get a crash/ride combo or separate cymbals?
Separate cymbals are better for learning. A combo is often a compromise - the crash might be too bright or the ride too thin. Focus on getting a decent crash first.
I'm playing in a loud band - should I get a bigger crash?
Not necessarily. Learning to control your dynamics is more important than just getting louder. A 17" crash can cut through a band if you learn to hit it properly.
What if I don't like the sound of my crash?
Cymbals are incredibly subjective. Don't be afraid to experiment! Try different brands and sizes until you find something that inspires you. Used markets are your friend here.
