Best Meinl 17" Crash Cymbals 2026
Alright, let's talk 17" Meinl crashes. They're a sweet spot - not too big, not too small - often the go-to for a versatile wash that still cuts without being overwhelming. If you're looking for something that works in everything from indie rock to jazz, a 17" is a solid starting point, and Meinl's take on them is consistently good, though they offer a lot of options. Finding the right one depends on your overall kit voicing and the kind of vibe you're chasing.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
#1
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 17" Byzance Thin Crash
by
Meinl
Progressive
Fusion
Rock
Key Feature:
The Meinl Byzance Thin is a beautifully voiced crash – it’s got a gorgeous dark shimmer and a really responsive feel. If you’re a gigging musician needing a refined, versatile crash that blends well in a variety of settings, this is a fantastic choice. It’s not a powerhouse, but it’s incredibly musical.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and warmth thanks to B20 bronze alloy
- • Thin profile delivers a quick, responsive feel and wash
- • Beautiful, dark shimmer avoids harshness or overtones
- • Versatile enough for jazz, funk, and lighter rock applications
CONS
- • Thinness makes it susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing
- • Higher price point places it out of reach for many beginners
- • Limited projection compared to heavier crash cymbals
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 168708
$406
#2
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 17" Byzance Jazz Thin Crash
by
Meinl
Fusion
Complex Music
Progressive
Key Feature:
This Meinl Jazz Thin crash is a serious contender for players seeking a vintage vibe without the extreme fragility of older cymbals. It's fantastic for jazz, blues, and smaller ensemble settings where a nuanced, responsive crash is key—just be mindful of its lighter build and play accordingly.
PROS
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex overtone series.
- • Thin profile and hammering provide a remarkably fast and explosive response.
- • Jazz finish maintains brilliance while softening high-frequency harshness.
- • Versatile enough to double as a lighter-weight ride for subtle textures.
CONS
- • Thinness makes it less durable, susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing.
- • The vintage sound might lack the modern clarity some players prefer.
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 223555
$406
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 17" Byzance Dark Crash
by
Meinl
Rock
Complex Music
Progressive
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Dark 17' crash is a beautifully crafted cymbal, perfect for players seeking a dark, controlled crash that doesn't dominate a mix. It excels in jazz, orchestral, or any genre where a subtle, nuanced crash is needed – think quieter passages or delicate fills. It's a premium option for serious drummers prioritizing a unique tonal quality.
PROS
- • Exceptional dark, dry character minimizes wash and unwanted overtones.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, nuanced sonic palette.
- • Hand-hammering provides a responsive feel and subtle variations in tone.
- • Well-laced with dark undertones, it sits beautifully in a full drum kit.
CONS
- • The extremely dry sound isn’t suitable for brighter, more cutting musical styles.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Smaller size limits projection compared to larger crash options.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 221807
$395
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 17" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Cr
by
Meinl
Complex Music
Power Playing
Metal
Key Feature:
This Meinl Jazz Extra Thin Crash is a gem for players seeking a refined, expressive crash. It's perfect for jazz, small ensemble work, or anyone wanting a cymbal that responds beautifully to subtle dynamics. The brilliant finish and hand-hammered construction create a premium feel and sound.
PROS
- • Exceptional responsiveness for nuanced, dynamic playing and subtle accents.
- • The B20 bronze construction delivers a warm, complex, and musical tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates a beautifully finished cymbal with a unique sonic signature.
- • Surprisingly versatile; functions well as a light ride for quieter passages.
CONS
- • The extra-thin profile makes it susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing.
- • Brilliant finish shows marks easily, requiring careful handling and cleaning.
- • Its focused sound may not be ideal for louder, more bombastic musical styles.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 223542
$406
#5
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 17" Byzance Medium Thin Crash
by
Meinl
Fusion
Progressive
Rock
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Medium Thin is a serious upgrade for players seeking a warm, expressive crash. It's fantastic for genres like jazz, R&B, and even softer rock where a controlled yet powerful crash is needed – it’s a go-to for drummers wanting a sophisticated sound without excessive volume.
PROS
- • Exceptional warmth and sustain for a 17 in crash.
- • Hand-hammered lathing creates complex overtones and shimmering wash.
- • Byzance alloy delivers a refined, musical character avoiding harshness.
- • Wide dynamic range allows for subtle ghost notes to explosive crashes.
CONS
- • Relatively high-priced compared to entry-level crash options.
- • Medium-thin weight can feel fragile under aggressive playing.
- • The 'loud decay' can become problematic in dense, layered drum mixes.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 167213
$406
#6
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Med. Crash
by
Meinl
Power Playing
Complex Music
Progressive
Key Feature:
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.
- • Well-balanced frequencies offer a musical, non-washy crash.
CONS
- • The medium weight may feel slightly heavy for some players.
- • Brilliant finish shows fingerprints and marks easily, requiring frequent cleaning.
- • While versatile, it lacks the extreme articulation of thinner crashes.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 261670
$202
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 17" Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash
by
Meinl
Power Playing
Metal
Complex Music
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash is a beautifully crafted cymbal, perfect for drummers seeking a sophisticated, nuanced sound. Its quick decay and darker tone shine in jazz, orchestral, and quieter studio settings, offering a unique alternative to brighter, more bombastic crashes.
PROS
- • Thin B20 bronze construction yields incredibly fast, complex decay.
- • Hammered texture creates a unique, nuanced wash and shimmering overtones.
- • Extra Dry lathing minimizes stickiness and provides a drier, more controlled sound.
- • The 17 in size offers a manageable, responsive feel for tighter spaces or delicate playing.
CONS
- • The very thin profile makes it somewhat fragile and prone to cracking with aggressive playing.
- • Its dry, dark character limits its versatility across a wide range of musical genres.
- • The price point positions it as a premium-priced option, potentially prohibitive for some.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 334216
$406
#8
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 17" Byzance Med. Thin Crash B.
by
Meinl
Fusion
Power Playing
Progressive
Key Feature:
This 17 in Byzance Med. Thin Crash B. is a versatile workhorse, offering a refined and musical sound. It's a great choice for drummers seeking a balanced crash that cuts through a mix without being harsh – ideal for modern pop, rock, and funk applications where you need clarity and projection.
PROS
- • Exceptional B20 bronze tonal complexity and sustain.
- • The medium-thin profile delivers a responsive, articulate wash.
- • Meinl’s hand-hammering creates a uniquely musical, shimmering quality.
- • Brilliant finish enhances high-frequency articulation and visual appeal.
CONS
- • Can be overly bright for very dark or vintage-focused kits.
- • The medium weight might feel a bit heavy for some players.
- • Price point places it firmly in the premium-priced cymbal category.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 221554
$406
#9
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 17" Pure Alloy Custom Crash
by
Meinl
Fusion
Rock
Power Playing
Key Feature:
This Pure Alloy crash is a fantastic option for drummers seeking a warm, responsive crash without the harshness sometimes found in brighter cymbals. It's a versatile choice for genres like jazz, acoustic, and lighter rock styles where a controlled, musical crash is desired. The build quality is superb, as you'd expect from a German-made Meinl.
PROS
- • The Pure Alloy blend delivers a surprisingly warm, musical initial attack.
- • Meinl’s hammering creates complex overtones without being overwhelming.
- • The medium-thin weight provides responsiveness for quieter dynamic playing.
- • Smoke Bronze finish reduces stick marks and offers a sophisticated aesthetic.
CONS
- • The short sustain limits its effectiveness for large, reverb-heavy spaces.
- • Pure Alloy isn't as bright or cutting as traditional B12 bronze cymbals.
- • The price point places it in a premium-priced category for a 17” crash.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 533371
$307
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl Pure Alloy 17" Medium Crash
by
Meinl
Complex Music
Power Playing
Rock
Key Feature:
This 17" Pure Alloy crash is a great all-around option for drummers needing a crisp, defined crash without the extreme brightness of some others. It's ideal for rock, pop, and funk where you want a clear cut through without overwhelming the kit – a solid, reliable workhorse for most genres.
PROS
- • Bright, clear wash with a focused, assertive attack.
- • The Pure Alloy blend offers a warmer character than typical B8 bronze.
- • Mechanical hammering creates complex overtones without excessive sustain.
- • Solid construction; feels durable and well-latted for consistent performance.
CONS
- • Limited versatility; leans towards brighter styles, less suited for darker genres.
- • Sustain, while medium, might feel short for players needing extended shimmer.
- • The Pure Alloy blend can lack the complexity of higher-end bronze alloys.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533368
$292
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 17" Classics Custom Dark Crash
by
Meinl
Complex Music
Power Playing
Metal
Key Feature:
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.
- • Well-balanced sound avoids excessive sustain or harshness.
CONS
- • Dark cymbals can lack brilliance for brighter musical styles.
- • The 17 in size might feel small for players needing a bigger crash.
- • Natural finish requires more careful maintenance to prevent discoloration.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 455920
$197
How to Choose the Best 17" Crash Cymbals
1
Sound Profile
Meinl's approach varies wildly. Some 17" crashes are bright and articulate, perfect for funk or cut, others offer a darker, more washy tone ideal for softer genres. Knowing which series (Byzance, Traditional, etc.) you're looking at is crucial.
2
Weight & Lathing
Lighter crashes have quicker response and a more shimmering wash, but can lack power. Heavier crashes offer more sustain and a more defined "stick attack," but can feel sluggish. The lathing - the depth of the holes - affects the cymbal's breathiness and decay.
3
Bell Definition
The bell of a crash is where a lot of the initial attack and fundamental tone comes from. A sharply defined bell delivers a more focused, cutting sound, while a more rounded bell creates a smoother, more blended tone. It's a subtle difference, but it makes a big impact.
4
Sustain & Decay
Sustain isn't just about how long a cymbal rings; it's about the quality of that ring. A good crash shouldn't just sustain, it should decay gracefully, without becoming muddy or harsh. Meinl's higher-end lines really excel here.
5
Build Quality & Durability
Meinl's manufacturing is generally solid, but cheaper lines sometimes show signs of stress cracking or uneven hammering. Gigging drummers need to be aware of this - a fragile cymbal is a liability, no matter how good it sounds in the store.
Buying Guide
Don't fall for the hype. A 17" crash is a tool, not a magic wand. Listen critically - record yourself playing and listen back. The 'expensive' Meinls (Byzance, for example) offer a refined complexity of tone that's noticeable in a well-miked recording, but sometimes a cheaper Traditional series crash will cut better live. Pay attention to the weight - lighter isn't always better, and heavier doesn't always mean louder. It means different.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. We've spent years playing Meinl cymbals in studios, on stage, and in countless rehearsal spaces. Our evaluations are based on how they sound and feel - how they respond to dynamics, how they cut through a mix, and how they hold up under real-world gigging conditions. We A/B tested these against other popular 17" crashes to get a clear picture of their strengths and weaknesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Byzance are B20 bronze (92% copper, 8% tin) and hand-hammered, offering a complex, nuanced sound with a quicker response. Traditional are B8 bronze (higher tin content) and machine-latted, generally brighter and more affordable, but with less complexity and sustain.
Absolutely. They're versatile enough to learn on and develop your technique. Just be mindful of the weight - a lighter crash is easier to control initially.
Check out the Meinl Traditional Medium or Dark series. They offer a good balance of power and articulation without being overly splashy. Avoid anything labeled 'light' or 'thin' if you need to cut through a loud band.
Technically, yes, but it won't be ideal. The stick attack will be harsh and the wash won't be as controlled as a dedicated ride. It's a decent backup in a pinch, but not a long-term solution.
It's a technique to alter the bell's tonal characteristics - it typically softens the bell's attack and adds a warmer, more complex tone. It's a subtle change, but it can make a difference in a dense mix.
