AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 17" Crash Cymbals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Zildjian 17" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal ($379). Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $189. 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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Zildjian 17" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal
17" A-Custom Projection Crash · Zildjian
30 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.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$379 now$379€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal
17" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Sabian XSR Fast Crash is a fantastic option for drummers seeking a quick, responsive crash without sacrificing warmth. It's a great all-around cymbal, ideal for gigging musicians and studio players who need a versatile crash that cuts through the mix without being overwhelming. The thinner profile makes it surprisingly easy to control.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Thin profile provides exceptional sensitivity and quick response.
- Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.
Cons
- The thinner weight may not suit heavier hitters or louder styles.
- Brilliant finish shows marks and scratches easily.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$312 now$312€279 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 17" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal
17" A-Series Medium Thin Crash · Zildjian
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17in A-Series Medium Thin Crash is a real workhorse – it’s got a gorgeous, clean sound that’s perfect for session work, jazz, and any genre where you need a sophisticated crash. It’s responsive and articulate, making it a great choice for drummers of all levels who appreciate a refined tone without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Brilliant, clean wash with a quick, responsive decay.
- The medium thin profile delivers a musical, bell-rich tone.
- A-Series bronze provides a balanced warmth and clarity.
Cons
- Lacks the raw, trashy character of heavier crash cymbals.
- May not cut through in extremely loud, high-energy rock bands.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$356 now$356€319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" RUDE Thin Crash Cymbal
17" Rude Thin Crash · Paiste
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Rude Thin is a seriously cool crash – it's got that signature Rude growl, but with a surprisingly quick response and a bright shimmer on top. It's fantastic for players needing a versatile crash that can handle a range of styles, from rock and pop to funk and beyond, especially if you want a darker, more complex tone than a traditional bright crash.
Pros
- Brilliant overtone cuts through dense mixes effectively.
- Rude series bronze offers a unique, complex sonic signature.
- Fast response and explosive character ideal for dynamic playing.
Cons
- The thin profile limits its ability to sustain longer, washier crashes.
- Rude bronze can be polarizing – not universally appealing.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$312 now$312€279 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal
17" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Rude Crash/Ride is a beast – a seriously loud and raw sounding cymbal built to cut through the mix. It’s fantastic for hard rock, metal, or any genre needing a powerful, aggressive crash and a workable ride. If you’re looking for a cymbal that screams attitude, this is a great option.
Pros
- Paiste’s Signature Rude bronze delivers a uniquely raw, aggressive tone.
- Heavy weight provides explosive volume and sustain for powerful playing.
- Versatile enough for both crash and ride duties, expanding sonic options.
Cons
- The aggressive sound may not suit all musical styles or quieter settings.
- Relatively heavy weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$312 now$312€279 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Color Sound Crash BK · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size17"
This 900 Color Sound crash is a solid, reliable option for drummers needing a versatile crash. The warm tone works great for rock, pop, and even some jazz applications. It's a budget-friendly entry point into the Paiste world and delivers a good bang for your buck.
Pros
- Warm, full tone ideal for a wide range of musical styles
- B8 bronze provides a responsive and relatively bright sound
- The black finish offers a unique aesthetic and reduces glare
Cons
- B8 bronze isn't as complex or nuanced as higher-end alloys
- The 17in size can be a bit quiet in larger ensemble settings
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size17"
The Stratus is a surprisingly refined crash for its price point. It's a great option if you're looking for a darker, more vintage-flavored crash that cuts through without being overly splashy – perfect for jazz, quieter rock, or anything where you want a touch of elegance. It’s a solid, dependable cymbal that'll do a lot of work for you.
Pros
- The B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- High-impact hammering creates a responsive, explosive initial attack.
- Thin profile allows for a quick, controlled decay, avoiding washiness.
Cons
- The thin weight might not hold up to aggressive, heavy hitters.
- Limited versatility; best suited for genres prioritizing warmth and subtlety.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$352 now$352€315 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size17"
The Sabian B8X Thin is a solid entry-level crash that punches above its weight class. It's surprisingly musical and responsive, making it a great choice for beginners, gigging musicians on a budget, or anyone needing a reliable, affordable crash for practice or quieter gigs. It's a definite step up from the absolute bottom-tier cymbals out there.
Pros
- B8 bronze alloy delivers a surprisingly warm, musical tone.
- Thin profile provides a quick, responsive wash and easy playability.
- Hammered bell adds a touch of complexity and shimmer to the sound.
Cons
- B8 bronze isn’t the highest quality, expect some patina and potential cracking.
- The thinness makes it susceptible to damage from aggressive playing.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$211 now$211€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 2019
17" Classics Custom Dark Crash · Meinl
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Classics Custom Dark is a solid, reliable crash—a real workhorse. It’s got a lovely warmth and responsiveness, perfect for rock, pop, and even some jazz where you don't want a super-splashy sound. It's a great all-arounder for drummers seeking a dark, articulate crash without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- B12 bronze offers a warm, complex tonal character.
- Natural finish preserves the bronze's inherent sonic qualities.
- Responsive attack allows for dynamic playing and clear articulation.
Cons
- Dark cymbals can lack brilliance for brighter musical styles.
- The 17 in size might feel small for players needing a bigger crash.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$211 now$211€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 2019
17" Classics Custom Med. Crash · Meinl
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Classics Custom crash is a real workhorse – reliable, sounds great, and holds up well to regular gigging. It's a fantastic choice for drummers needing a solid, go-to crash that won't break the bank and delivers a pleasing, musical response across various styles.
Pros
- Excellent all-around versatility across many musical genres.
- The Brilliant finish provides a clean, professional aesthetic.
- Meinl’s B12 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex tone.
Cons
- The medium weight may feel slightly heavy for some players.
- Brilliant finish shows fingerprints and marks easily, requiring frequent cleaning.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$211 now$211€189 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
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal17" 900 Color Crash PRP · Paiste74Stable$196€175$196€175Check ↗
- 12
Meinl 17" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17" Pure Alloy Custom Crash · Meinl63Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 13
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal17" 900 Series Crash · Paiste74Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 14
Paiste 17" RUDE Wild Crash Cymbal17" Rude Wild Crash · Paiste61Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 15
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Brilliant Crash17" Xist Crash Brilliant · Istanbul Agop60Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 16
Istanbul Agop 17" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal17" Traditional Thin Crash · Istanbul Agop59Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 17
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" CrashPaiste57Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 18
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" Thin CrashPaiste57Stable$317€284$317€284Check ↗
- 19
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" Power CrashPaiste57Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 20
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal17" 900 Color Heavy Crash BK · Paiste68Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 21
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal17" 900 Series Heavy Crash · Paiste68Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 22
Zultan 17" Alaris CrashZultan55Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 23
Zultan 17" Dune CrashZultan55Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 24
Zultan 17" Aeon CrashZultan55Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 25
Zultan 17" Heritage CrashZultan55Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 26
Meinl Pure Alloy 17" Medium CrashMeinl55Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 27
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Samatya Crash Cymbal17" Crash Samatya Series · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 28
Istanbul Agop 17" Signature Crash17" Agop Signature Crash · Istanbul Agop55Stable$385€345$385€345Check ↗
- 29
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Crash IMC NaturalIstanbul Mehmet54Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 30
Ufip 17" Class Series Crash LightUfip54↓ 2.1%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 31
Ufip 17" Class Series Crash MediumUfip54↓ 2.1%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 32
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Black Bell CrashIstanbul Mehmet54Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 33
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Dry Dark CrashIstanbul Agop53Stable$263€235$263€235Check ↗
- 34
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Dark ION CrashIstanbul Agop53Stable$274€245$274€245Check ↗
- 35
Ufip 17" Bionic Series CrashUfip53Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 36
Istanbul Agop 17" Traditional Dark CrashIstanbul Agop53Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 37
Ufip 17" Blast Extra Dry CrashUfip53Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 38
Ufip 17" Blast Series CrashUfip53Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 39
Zultan 17" Z-Series CrashZultan55Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 40
Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash CymbalPST7 17" Thin Crash · Paiste · 2 finishes78Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 41
Zildjian 17" I Family Trash Crash Cymbal17" I Family Trash Crash · Zildjian70Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 42
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal17" Thin Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet50↓ 3.7%$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 43
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Turk Crash Cymbal17" Crash Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet50↓ 3.6%$301€269$301€269Check ↗
- 44
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal17" Paper Thin Crash Tradit. · Istanbul Mehmet49Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 45
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Medium Crash Cymbal17" Medium Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet49Stable$296€265$296€265Check ↗
- 46
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Dark Crash Cymbal17" Dark Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet49Stable$301€269$301€269Check ↗
- 47
Paiste 17" PST 8 Reflector Rock Crash Cymbal17" PST8 Reflector Rock Crash · Paiste67Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 48
Zultan 17" Caz CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 49
Zultan 17" F5 CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 50
Zultan 17" Q CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
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
Intermediate players need a crash that's responsive to quieter playing but can still cut through a loud band. Too much wash and it'll get lost; too much stick definition and it'll be brittle.
Sustain & Decay
You want enough sustain to create a wash, but not so much that it rings forever and gets muddy. A good crash should decay naturally, leaving space for the other instruments.
Weight & Action
A lighter crash will be more responsive and easier to control, which is good for developing technique. However, a slightly heavier crash might have more projection. Finding the right balance is key.
Bell Tone & Harmonic Complexity
A lively bell is crucial for that initial 'ping' and overall shimmer. Intermediate players are starting to hear nuances - you want a crash that offers more than just a single, flat tone.
Trashiness/Rawness
Too clean and it'll sound sterile. A little bit of raw, unrefined character can add a lot of vibe and feel, but too much and it'll just sound cheap and clangy.
Buying guide
So, you're past the beginner stage and looking to expand your crash arsenal? A 17" crash is a sweet spot - not too aggressive, not too timid. They're versatile enough for everything from subtle accents in jazz to adding some shimmer to rock and pop. But choosing the right one can be tricky; you need something that responds well to your developing dynamics and doesn't sound like a dinner plate.
Don't chase the loudest crash you can find; control and responsiveness are more important as you improve. Entry-level cymbals often cut corners on alloy and hammering, leading to a dull, lifeless sound. Spending a little more on a well-made 17" crash will pay dividends in your playing and recording.
Listen for the 'ping' and the overall decay - those are the details that separate a usable crash from a paperweight.
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
What's the difference between a crash and a ride crash?
A ride crash is basically a ride cymbal designed to be crashed. They generally have a more defined stick sound and a shorter sustain than a dedicated crash. Good for a drier, more controlled crash sound.
I'm recording. Should I go bigger or smaller?
A 17" crash is often a good choice for recording, as it can sit well in a mix without overwhelming the other instruments. However, mic placement and room acoustics play a huge role - experiment!
Are bronze cymbals always better?
Not necessarily. Bronze (especially B20) generally offers more complexity and harmonic richness, but there are decent brass cymbals out there. It's about the overall construction and hammering, not just the alloy.
How do I care for my new crash?
Keep it clean! Regularly wipe it down with a cymbal cleaner to remove oils and residue. Avoid hitting it too hard - cymbals are delicate and can crack.
I'm on a budget, what's the best way to get a decent sound?
Look for used cymbals from reputable brands. You can often find excellent deals on models that have been well cared for. Don't be afraid to try something unconventional - sometimes a smaller, thinner crash can sound fantastic.
