AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 17" Crash Cymbals for Professional 2026

Q: Are B8 bronze cymbals suitable for professional use?

B8 bronze is a good starting point, but the higher alloy content often means a less complex tone and less dynamic range. They're durable, sure, but you'll hear the compromise. For consistent pro gigs, look at B20 or higher.

Q: What's the deal with 'lathing'?

Lathing refers to the grooves cut into the cymbal's surface. Deeper lathing generally means a more open, washy sound, while shallower lathing emphasizes stick definition. It's a crucial factor in how the cymbal responds, so pay attention to it.

Q: Should I get a heavier or lighter 17" crash?

Heavier cymbals will have more sustain and projection, better for louder genres. Lighter cymbals are more responsive and nuanced, ideal for jazz or quieter styles. It really comes down to your personal preference and the type of music you play.

Q: I'm struggling to make my 17" crash cut through the mix - what's wrong?

It's likely a combination of factors. The cymbal might be too heavily damped, the mounting might be restricting its movement, or your technique might be burying it. Try loosening the mounting hardware, experimenting with different playing positions, and listening critically to how it interacts with the other instruments.

Q: Are pre-played or 'vintage' cymbals worth the money?

Potentially, but be cautious. A well-played vintage cymbal can develop a unique character, but you're also paying for the wear and tear. Thoroughly inspect it for cracks and keyholing before committing - it's a gamble.

The top pick is Sabian 17" Artisan Thin Crash ($692). Zildjian 17" A Custom Crash Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $415. 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 Showing: For Professional · clear

Price

Skill level

Brand

Top 10

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

Sabian 17" Artisan Thin Crash
Sabian
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Artisan Thin crash is a beautifully voiced cymbal, perfect for players seeking a warm, expressive crash with a shimmering decay. It really shines in more nuanced musical settings – think jazz, orchestral, or even lighter rock – where you want a refined, musical response. It's a high-end option, but the tone is truly special.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a complex, shimmering wash and sustain.
- Thin profile provides exceptional responsiveness and dynamic range.
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced tonal character and beautiful lathing.
Cons
- The thinness makes it less suited for heavier, more aggressive playing styles.
- Natural finish requires diligent care to prevent oxidation and tarnish.
56AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker87
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$692 now

$692€615 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 ↗
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash Cymbal
17" HHX Plosion Crash · Sabian
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17-inch crash hits hard with a clear, well-defined sound that handles big dynamics well. It shines bright and fits every music style you play. Great for drummers who want a reliable, high-end crash that sounds professional right out of the box.
Pros
- Delivers a clear and well defined sound
- Offers a wide dynamic range for expression
- Works well across all styles of music
Cons
- No specific metal thickness is listed
- Weight details are not provided in text
75AudioFu
Index
- Demand78
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker87
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$505 now

$505€449 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Sabian 17" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal
17" HHX Complex Thin Crash · Sabian
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Complex Thin Crash is a real gem – a warm, responsive cymbal that sings with a gorgeous wash. It’s fantastic for players in jazz, fusion, or anyone wanting a sophisticated, nuanced crash without being overly aggressive. It’s a serious upgrade from entry-level cymbals, and the build quality reflects that.
Pros
- B20 bronze construction delivers a warm, complex, and musical tone.
- Hammered bell provides a shimmering, explosive wash beyond the fundamental.
- Thin profile allows for responsive playing and dynamic control across genres.
Cons
- The thinness makes it potentially less durable under aggressive playing.
- The warm character might be too mellow for players seeking a bright, cutting crash.
72AudioFu
Index
- Demand70
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker87
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$505 now

$505€449 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Zildjian 17" K' Constantinople Susp.
Zildjian
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17' K' Constantinople is a beautifully nuanced crash – think orchestral sessions, film scores, or any situation where you need a sophisticated, controlled sound. It's not a loud, splashy crash, but a subtle, expressive voice that sits perfectly in a mix. A real gem for the discerning player.
Pros
- Exceptional warmth and complexity from the B20 bronze alloy
- Immediate response and articulation thanks to the thin-medium weight
- The flat profile delivers a focused, controlled crash sound
Cons
- Relatively short sustain compared to heavier crash cymbals
- The traditional finish can be prone to marking and patina changes
55AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker79
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$591 now

$591€525 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Sabian 17" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal
17" HHX Legacy Crash · Sabian
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This Legacy Crash from Sabian, designed with Dave Weckl, is a serious piece of kit. It’s got that warm, controlled darkness perfect for jazz, fusion, and anything needing a sophisticated crash. If you’re looking for a crash that cuts through without being overly aggressive, this is a top contender.
Pros
- Dave Weckl’s signature voicing provides a focused, articulate crash sound.
- The B20 bronze alloy delivers a dark, complex tonal character.
- Hammered bell provides a distinct, shimmering overtone response.
Cons
- The darker sound might be too subdued for brighter musical styles.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
69AudioFu
Index
- Demand63
- Lineup63
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker87
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$500 now

$500€444 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Sabian 17" HHX Evolution Crash Cymbal
17" HHX Evolution Crash · Sabian
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The HHX Evolution is a really well-crafted crash; it’s got a modern, explosive sound with plenty of clarity, thanks to the brilliant finish. It’s a great choice for players in rock, pop, and funk who want a cymbal that cuts through the mix without being overly splashy. It’s a step up from entry-level cymbals, offering a professional feel and sound.
Pros
- Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a lively, responsive wash.
- HHX series offers a modern, controlled sound – avoids excessive sustain.
- Brilliant finish enhances clarity and projection, cutting through dense mixes.
Cons
- The brilliant finish shows fingerprints and handling marks easily.
- May be too bright for drummers seeking a dark, vintage cymbal tone.
72AudioFu
Index
- Demand67
- Lineup63
- Price63
- Specs100
- Maker87
↓ 4.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$505 · Aug 14$483 now

$483€429 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 ↗

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" 602 Medium CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
12
Paiste 17" Traditional Thin CrashPaiste

Index 58↓ 1.1%
58
↓ 1.1%$500€444
$500€444Check ↗
13
Sabian 17" HHX HHXtrem Crash trad.Sabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
14
Sabian 17" HHX HHXtrem CrashSabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
15
Paiste 17" Signature Dark Energy MK1Paiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$494€439
$494€439Check ↗
16
Zildjian 17" A Custom Fast Crash Cymbal17" A-Custom Fast Crash · Zildjian

Index 76↑ 4.8%
76
↑ 4.8%$393€349
$393€349Check ↗
17
Zildjian 17" K Series Dark Thin Crash Cymbal17" K-Series Dark Crash Thin · Zildjian

Index 76Stable
76
Stable$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
18
Zildjian 17" K Custom Dark Crash Cymbal17" K-Custom Dark Crash · Zildjian

Index 76Stable
76
Stable$448€398
$448€398Check ↗
19
Paiste 17" Thin Crash 602 SeriesPaiste

Index 60↓ 5.6%
60
↓ 5.6%$472€419
$472€419Check ↗
20
Zildjian 17" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal17" A-Custom Projection Crash · Zildjian

Index 76Stable
76
Stable$381€339
$381€339Check ↗
21
Paiste 17" 602 Mod. Essentials CrashPaiste

Index 59↓ 4.6%
59
↓ 4.6%$472€419
$472€419Check ↗
22
Paiste 17" Signature Full Crash Cymbal17" Signature Full Crash · Paiste

Index 74↓ 2.3%
74
↓ 2.3%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
23
Zildjian 17" K Custom Hybrid Crash Cymbal17" K-Custom Hybrid Crash · Zildjian

Index 74Stable
74
Stable$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
24
Sabian 17" HHX Evolution Effect CrashSabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$483€429
$483€429Check ↗
25
Zildjian 17" A Custom Crash Cymbal17" A-Custom Crash · Zildjian

Index 72↑ 13.7%
72
↑ 13.7%$393€349
$393€349Check ↗
26
Sabian 17" AAX Thin Crash Cymbal17" AAX Thin Crash · Sabian

Index 72Stable
72
Stable$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
27
Paiste 17" Signature Fast Crash Cymbal17" Signature Fast Crash · Paiste

Index 72↓ 2.6%
72
↓ 2.6%$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
28
Paiste 17" Signature Power Crash Cymbal17" Signature Power Crash · Paiste

Index 70↓ 7.7%
70
↓ 7.7%$404€359
$404€359Check ↗
29
Zildjian 17" K Custom Special Dry Trash Crash Cymbal17" K Custom Special Dry Trash · Zildjian

Index 70Stable
70
Stable$448€398
$448€398Check ↗
30
Paiste 17" Masters Dark Crash Cymbal17" Masters Dark Crash · Paiste

Index 67Stable
67
Stable$448€398
$448€398Check ↗
31
Meinl 17" Byzance Dark CrashMeinl

Index 65Stable
65
Stable$404€359
$404€359Check ↗
32
Meinl 17" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash17" Byzance Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 65↑ 2.2%
65
↑ 2.2%$424€377
$424€377Check ↗
33
Meinl 17" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17"Byzance J.Medium Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 65Stable
65
Stable$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
34
Paiste 17" Signature Mellow Crash Cymbal17" Signature Mellow Crash · Paiste

Index 64↓ 2.6%
64
↓ 2.6%$415€369
$415€369Check ↗
35
Meinl 17" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash17" Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash · Meinl

Index 64↑ 2.7%
64
↑ 2.7%$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
36
Meinl 17" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash17" Byzance Med. Thin Crash B. · Meinl

Index 63↑ 5.4%
63
↑ 5.4%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
37
Sabian 17" Stratus Crash Cymbal17" Stratus Crash · Sabian

Index 69Stable
69
Stable$354€315
$354€315Check ↗
38
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 ↗
39
Meinl 17" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash Cymbal17" Byzance Medium Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 62↑ 5.4%
62
↑ 5.4%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
40
Paiste 17" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal17" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste

Index 73↓ 3.5%
73
↓ 3.5%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
41
Meinl 17" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Crash17" Byzance Jazz Thin Crash · Meinl

Index 58↑ 2.7%
58
↑ 2.7%$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
42
Paiste 17" RUDE Thin Crash Cymbal17" Rude Thin Crash · Paiste

Index 71↓ 3.5%
71
↓ 3.5%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
43
Sabian 17" AAX Crystal Thin Crash Cymbal17" AAX Crystal Thin Crash · Sabian

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$402€357
$402€357Check ↗
44
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal17" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian

Index 70Stable
70
Stable$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
45
Sabian 17" AAX AAXplosion CrashSabian

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
46
Meinl 17" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Crash17" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Cr · Meinl

Index 56↑ 5.4%
56
↑ 5.4%$438€389
$438€389Check ↗
47
Istanbul Agop 17" Signature Crash17" Agop Signature Crash · Istanbul Agop

Index 52↑ 6.5%
52
↑ 6.5%$388€345
$388€345Check ↗
48
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 ↗
49
Paiste 17" RUDE Wild Crash Cymbal17" Rude Wild Crash · Paiste

Index 61Stable
61
Stable$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
50
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 ↗
51
Ufip 17" Blast Extra Dry CrashUfip

Index 51↑ 3.2%
51
↑ 3.2%$359€319
$359€319Check ↗
52
Ufip 17" Blast Series CrashUfip

Index 51↑ 3.2%
51
↑ 3.2%$359€319
$359€319Check ↗
53
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" Power CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
54
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" Thin CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$320€284
$320€284Check ↗
55
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Black Bell CrashIstanbul Mehmet

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
56
Istanbul Agop 17" Traditional Dark CrashIstanbul Agop

Index 50↑ 7.2%
50
↑ 7.2%$336€299
$336€299Check ↗
57
Ufip 17" Class Series Crash LightUfip

Index 54↓ 2.1%
54
↓ 2.1%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
58
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Samatya Crash Cymbal17" Crash Samatya Series · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 51↑ 9.1%
51
↑ 9.1%$325€289
$325€289Check ↗
59
Meinl Pure Alloy 17" Medium CrashMeinl

Index 53↑ 5.3%
53
↑ 5.3%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
60
Paiste 2002 Classic 17" CrashPaiste

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$291€259
$291€259Check ↗
61
Ufip 17" Bionic Series CrashUfip

Index 51↑ 3.7%
51
↑ 3.7%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
62
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Dark Crash Cymbal17" Dark Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 52↑ 1.5%
52
↑ 1.5%$303€269
$303€269Check ↗
63
Zultan 17" Heritage CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$280€249
$280€249Check ↗
64
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Brilliant Crash17" Xist Crash Brilliant · Istanbul Agop

Index 57↑ 7.7%
57
↑ 7.7%$269€239
$269€239Check ↗
65
Ufip 17" Class Series Crash MediumUfip

Index 47↑ 12.0%
47
↑ 12.0%$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
66
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Turk Crash Cymbal17" Crash Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 48↑ 1.5%
48
↑ 1.5%$303€269
$303€269Check ↗
67
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 ↗
68
Zultan 17" Aeon CrashZultan

Index 57↓ 4.6%
57
↓ 4.6%$235€209
$235€209Check ↗
69
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Traditional Series Medium Crash Cymbal17" Medium Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet

Index 44↑ 11.3%
44
↑ 11.3%$298€265
$298€265Check ↗
70
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Dry Dark CrashIstanbul Agop

Index 50↑ 5.9%
50
↑ 5.9%$264€235
$264€235Check ↗
71
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 ↗
72
Istanbul Agop 17" Xist Dark ION CrashIstanbul Agop

Index 46↑ 17.2%
46
↑ 17.2%$276€245
$276€245Check ↗
73
Zultan 17" Alaris CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
74
Zultan 17" Dune CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
75
Istanbul Mehmet 17" Crash IMC NaturalIstanbul Mehmet

Index 49↑ 11.2%
49
↑ 11.2%$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
76
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal17" 900 Color Sound Crash Blue · Paiste · 2 finishes

Index 84↓ 5.7%
84
↓ 5.7%$186€165
$186€165Check ↗
77
Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash CymbalPST7 17" Crash · Paiste · 2 finishes

Index 76Stable
76
Stable$141€125
$141€125Check ↗
78
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal17" 900 Color Crash PRP · Paiste

Index 75↓ 1.7%
75
↓ 1.7%$197€175
$197€175Check ↗
79
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal17" 900 Series Crash · Paiste

Index 74Stable
74
Stable$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
80
Sabian 17" B8X Thin Crash Cymbal17" B8X Thin Crash · Sabian

Index 70Stable
70
Stable$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
81
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 ↗
82
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 201917" Classics Custom Med. Crash · Meinl

Index 69↑ 2.7%
69
↑ 2.7%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
83
Zildjian 17" I Family Trash Crash Cymbal17" I Family Trash Crash · Zildjian

Index 68Stable
68
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
84
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal17" 900 Series Heavy Crash · Paiste

Index 68Stable
68
Stable$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
85
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash Cymbal 201917" Classics Custom Dark Crash · Meinl

Index 68↑ 5.6%
68
↑ 5.6%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
86
Paiste 17" PST 8 Reflector Rock Crash Cymbal17" PST8 Reflector Rock Crash · Paiste

Index 67Stable
67
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
87
Zultan 17" Aja CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$96€85
$96€85Check ↗
88
Zultan 17" Aja Blaze CrashZultan

Index 55Stable
55
Stable$100€89
$100€89Check ↗
89
Zultan 17" Rock Beat CrashZultan

Index 53↑ 6.3%
53
↑ 6.3%$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
90
Zultan 17" Caz CrashZultan

Index 53↑ 5.9%
53
↑ 5.9%$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
91
Zultan 17" Dark Matter Holey CrashZultan

Index 52↑ 6.7%
52
↑ 6.7%$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
92
Zultan 17" Raw CrashZultan

Index 52↑ 6.7%
52
↑ 6.7%$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
93
Zultan 17" Crash Dark MatterZultan

Index 52↑ 6.7%
52
↑ 6.7%$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
94
Zultan 17" Z-Series CrashZultan

Index 50↑ 11.8%
50
↑ 11.8%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
95
Zultan 17" F5 CrashZultan

Index 48↑ 20.1%
48
↑ 20.1%$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
96
Zultan 17" Q CrashZultan

Index 48↑ 20.1%
48
↑ 20.1%$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
97
Masterwork 17" Custom CrashMasterwork

Index 48↑ 5.6%
48
↑ 5.6%$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
98
Masterwork 17" Resonant CrashMasterwork

Index 47↑ 7.4%
47
↑ 7.4%$212€188
$212€188Check ↗

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

Wash vs. Stick Definition

The sweet spot is a controlled wash that doesn't smear your articulation. Too much wash and it's just noise; too much stick definition and it sounds brittle. It's a balancing act, and pros need to hear both clearly.

Sustain & Decay

A 17" shouldn't have the sustain of a 20" ride, but it needs enough to make a statement. The decay should be responsive to your playing-a quick tap should die quickly, a full stroke should linger just enough to add color.

Dynamic Range

Can it whisper and scream? A professional needs a crash that responds to subtle changes in force. A cymbal that sounds the same whether you graze it or smash it is useless.

Timbre & Complexity

Forget the one-note 'ping.' We're looking for cymbals with multiple overtones, a complex sonic character, and a unique voice that can add personality to your kit. That 'fat midrange honk' is often what separates a good crash from a great one.

Playability & Sensitivity

How easy is it to get a good sound out of it? A stiff cymbal will fight you, while an overly sensitive one will be unpredictable. The ideal crash should feel like an extension of your hand, responsive and forgiving.

Buying guide

Let's be honest, a 17" crash is a sweet spot - big enough to cut through a loud band, but still manageable for nuanced dynamics and quick transitions. You're not a beginner anymore; you need a crash that responds to your ghost notes, doesn't wash out the cymbals in the mix, and can handle the abuse of a touring gig. This isn't a list of 'meh' cymbals; these are the 17" crashes that pros reach for, and we're gonna tell you why.

Don't chase the loudest cymbal. It'll always sound like a mess in a band. Look for clarity and articulation first.

Cheaper cymbals often use thicker alloys that choke the sound and reduce sensitivity - you'll feel it in your playing. Spend the money on a cymbal that inspires you; it's an investment in your sound and your enjoyment. A well-chosen 17" can be a workhorse for years.

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 B8 bronze cymbals suitable for professional use?

B8 bronze is a good starting point, but the higher alloy content often means a less complex tone and less dynamic range. They're durable, sure, but you'll hear the compromise. For consistent pro gigs, look at B20 or higher.

What's the deal with 'lathing'?

Lathing refers to the grooves cut into the cymbal's surface. Deeper lathing generally means a more open, washy sound, while shallower lathing emphasizes stick definition. It's a crucial factor in how the cymbal responds, so pay attention to it.

Should I get a heavier or lighter 17" crash?

Heavier cymbals will have more sustain and projection, better for louder genres. Lighter cymbals are more responsive and nuanced, ideal for jazz or quieter styles. It really comes down to your personal preference and the type of music you play.

I'm struggling to make my 17" crash cut through the mix - what's wrong?

It's likely a combination of factors. The cymbal might be too heavily damped, the mounting might be restricting its movement, or your technique might be burying it. Try loosening the mounting hardware, experimenting with different playing positions, and listening critically to how it interacts with the other instruments.

Are pre-played or 'vintage' cymbals worth the money?

Potentially, but be cautious. A well-played vintage cymbal can develop a unique character, but you're also paying for the wear and tear. Thoroughly inspect it for cracks and keyholing before committing - it's a gamble.