Best Zultan 17" Crash Cymbals 2026
Alright, let's talk Zultan 17" crashes. They're not the first cymbal that jumps to mind for most folks, I get it. But if you're chasing a really articulate, musical crash that cuts without being brittle, and you're tired of the same old parade of bright, generic sounds, Zultan deserves a serious listen. These aren't your typical off-the-rack hardware; they're built on a real legacy of Turkish craftsmanship.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 17" crash cymbals in 2026 are Zultan 17" Caz Crash (top pick), Zultan 17" Rock Beat Crash for tighter budgets, and Zultan 17" Dune Crash for pros — selected from 13 options, priced $93–$273, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Caz Crash
by
Zultan
Complex Music
Metal
Progressive
Key Feature:
The Zultan Caz 17in crash is a surprisingly articulate and responsive cymbal. Its B20 bronze construction gives it a lovely warmth, perfect for jazz, fusion, or any style where you want a more nuanced crash than a typical bright, cutting sound. It’s a great option for players seeking a more traditional feel at a reasonable price point.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Hand hammering creates nuanced overtones and a lively response.
- • Lower weight allows for fast, expressive playing and quiet dynamics.
- • Polished finish enhances brightness and visual appeal without excessive harshness.
CONS
- • The thinner profile might lack sustain for heavier, more aggressive styles.
- • B20 bronze, while versatile, won't offer the projection of B8.
- • While versatile, truly excels in jazz/fusion, less ideal for metal.
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 278664
$186
#2
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Rock Beat Crash
by
Zultan
Fusion
Power Playing
Metal
Key Feature:
This Zultan Rock Beat is a solid crash for players who want a big, impactful sound without spending a fortune. It's got a quick response and a full tone that'll work great for rock, pop, and heavier styles – a real workhorse cymbal for gigging drummers.
PROS
- • B-20 bronze delivers a warm, musical foundation for the sound
- • Fast response makes it ideal for dynamic, nuanced playing
- • Hand-polished finish provides a bright aesthetic and consistent tone
- • Excellent projection cuts through even dense drum mixes
CONS
- • Rock Beat series leans toward a heavier sound, less versatile for lighter genres
- • Brilliant finish may require more frequent cleaning to maintain shine
- • While well-made, the B-20 alloy isn't as complex as higher-end bronze blends
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 269730
$175
#3
⭐
2.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Dune Crash
by
Zultan
Rock
Fusion
Complex Music
Key Feature:
The Zultan Dune is a fantastic crash if you're after a quick, trashy response – think modern rock, alternative, or even a drier jazz sound. It’s not going to give you those lush, shimmering crashes, but what it *does* do, it does exceptionally well, offering a lot of character for the price point. It’s a great choice for drummers looking for something a little different.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a complex, nuanced sonic character.
- • Hand-hammering creates a unique, organic feel and responsiveness.
- • Fast decay and controlled overtones are great for busy mixes.
- • Polished bell offers a clear, articulate strike when needed.
CONS
- • Dune series leans heavily into a dry sound; not ideal for wash or shimmer.
- • Hammering can lead to slight inconsistencies in playing feel between samples.
- • The thinner profile might not hold up to aggressive, heavy hitters.
⭐
2.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 450102
$219
#4
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Raw Crash
by
Zultan
Complex Music
Fusion
Rock
Key Feature:
This Zultan 17 in Raw Crash is a seriously cool cymbal for players seeking a darker, more organic sound. It’s fantastic for jazz, neo-soul, or anyone wanting a less splashy, more controlled crash. The raw finish gives it a unique character and a surprisingly dry, woody feel.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex foundational tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and responsiveness.
- • Raw, unlathed surface minimizes harsh overtones and ringing.
- • Compact size offers excellent control and quick response.
CONS
- • Raw finish lacks the polished aesthetic some drummers prefer.
- • Limited versatility; excels in darker musical styles, less bright.
- • May require more frequent cleaning due to the unlathed surface.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 383207
$164
#5
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Z-Series Crash
by
Zultan
Metal
Complex Music
Power Playing
Key Feature:
This Zultan 17 in crash is a surprisingly versatile cymbal, offering a warm, full sound with a quick response. It's a great option for gigging musicians or those looking for a well-balanced crash without spending a fortune – particularly well-suited for rock, pop, and lighter jazz applications.
PROS
- • Warm, full tone provides excellent wash and sustain.
- • B20 bronze delivers a bright, complex shimmer.
- • Hand-hammering adds a unique character and responsiveness.
- • Relatively fast decay prevents muddiness in dense mixes.
CONS
- • Hammering inconsistencies can lead to slight tonal variations between cymbals.
- • Zultan’s budget-friendly construction limits extreme dynamic range.
- • The finish may be prone to scratching with heavy use.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 278619
$186
#6
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" F5 Crash
by
Zultan
Rock
Progressive
Complex Music
Key Feature:
This Zultan F5 is a real statement piece – loud, aggressive, and built to cut through. It's perfect for rock, metal, or any genre where you need a crash with serious volume and a defined stick sound. Not the best choice for subtle jazz work, though.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers warm, complex overtones and sustain.
- • Hammered finish creates unique wash and interesting visual appeal.
- • Aggressive attack provides powerful projection for louder settings.
- • Compact stick sound offers clarity and cut amidst a busy kit.
CONS
- • The aggressive nature limits versatility for quieter, more nuanced playing.
- • Hammered finish might not appeal to those preferring a pristine, shiny look.
- • The heavier weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 269748
$164
#7
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Q Crash
by
Zultan
Complex Music
Power Playing
Metal
Key Feature:
The Zultan Q Crash is a surprisingly versatile option. The contrasting finishes create a really interesting sonic palette – you get a dark, trashy wash alongside a bright shimmer. It's a solid choice for drummers looking for a unique crash with a lot of character without a premium price tag, especially good for rock, pop, and heavier styles.
PROS
- • B20 bronze construction delivers warm, complex overtones
- • Unique bi-tonal design offers versatile dynamic response
- • Deep hammering creates a powerful, trashy wash
- • Polished areas provide clarity and shimmering accents
CONS
- • Untreated areas may develop patina faster than desired
- • The raw bell can be a bit clangy for some tastes
- • Lacks the sustain of higher-end, thinner crash cymbals
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 268244
$164
#8
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Zultan 17" Heritage Crash
by
Zultan
Progressive
Fusion
Metal
Key Feature:
The Zultan Heritage 17-inch crash is a really solid choice if you're after a vintage vibe without spending a fortune. It’s got a lovely warmth and complexity that works beautifully in jazz, blues, and classic rock – it’s a great all-rounder for players who want a touch of class without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • B20 bronze construction delivers a warm, complex, and musical tone.
- • Hand-hammered finish creates a unique wash and responsive feel.
- • 17-inch size offers a balanced volume and controlled sustain.
- • Heritage series voicing provides a vintage-inspired character suitable for diverse genres.
CONS
- • The warm tone might lack the aggressive brightness for modern metal styles.
- • Handmade nature introduces slight variations in sound and appearance.
- • While affordable, the price point might be a stretch for absolute beginners.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 422420
$274
#9
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Crash CS Series
by
Zultan
Rock
Power Playing
Metal
Key Feature:
This Zultan 17in Crash is a really solid choice for drummers looking for a full, expressive crash without spending a fortune. The B25 bronze gives it a lovely warmth, perfect for genres like jazz, acoustic, or even lighter rock – it’s a versatile workhorse that responds beautifully to different playing styles.
PROS
- • B25 bronze delivers a warm, complex tone with shimmering overtones.
- • Hand-hammering creates a responsive, musical feel under the stick.
- • The hand-sealed finish helps retain the cymbal's bright character over time.
- • Well-balanced weight provides excellent projection and dynamic range.
CONS
- • The sound, while versatile, might lack the extreme cut needed for heavier genres.
- • B25 bronze, while excellent, isn't as bright as B8, limiting its ultimate sizzle.
- • The hand-hammered nature can lead to slight inconsistencies in playing feel.
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 281098
$230
#10
⭐
2.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Aeon Crash
by
Zultan
Progressive
Fusion
Rock
Key Feature:
The Zultan Aeon 17" is a really nice crash if you're after a bright, articulate sound. It's a great option for players in pop, funk, or lighter rock styles who want a cymbal that cuts through the mix without being overly aggressive. The hand-hammering gives it a real character that mass-produced cymbals often lack.
PROS
- • B25 bronze delivers a bright, responsive tone with excellent projection.
- • Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a lively, organic feel.
- • Longer decay provides a washiness suitable for dynamic playing styles.
- • Untreated bell maintains a pure, uncolored fundamental tone – very clean.
CONS
- • B25 alloy might lack the dark complexity of B8 or B20 bronze.
- • The bright sound may not be ideal for heavier, darker musical genres.
- • Handmade nature introduces slight variations; consistency isn't guaranteed.
⭐
2.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 543140
$241
#11
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Crash Dark Matter
by
Zultan
Fusion
Progressive
Metal
Key Feature:
The Zultan Dark Matter 17-inch crash is a solid choice for drummers who prefer a darker, more musical crash without the excessive sustain. It's a great all-around cymbal, particularly well-suited for jazz, acoustic, and more nuanced rock styles where you don't want a harsh, overpowering crash.
PROS
- • Hand-hammered construction delivers a complex, nuanced wash of sound.
- • Dark Matter line provides a noticeably warmer, more controlled crash than brighter Zultan models.
- • 17-inch size offers a versatile balance between volume and responsiveness.
- • The fine overtone structure minimizes unwanted ringing, allowing for clean mixes.
CONS
- • Dark character might be too subdued for players seeking a splashy, cutting crash.
- • 100% hand-hammering means slight variations in appearance and response are expected.
- • While affordable, it may not offer the same level of complexity as premium, hand-crafted cymbals.
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 382738
$164
#12
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Dark Matter Holey Crash
by
Zultan
Rock
Metal
Complex Music
Key Feature:
The Dark Matter Holey Crash is a seriously interesting cymbal. The holes really quicken the decay and add a unique shimmer without sacrificing too much warmth – it's surprisingly versatile for a specialized design. This is a great option for drummers wanting a unique crash sound, especially those playing jazz, funk, or more nuanced grooves.
PROS
- • B20 bronze provides a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Holes create a unique, fast decay and shimmering wash.
- • Hand-hammering adds complexity and responsiveness to the cymbal.
- • Offers a wide dynamic range despite its shorter sustain.
CONS
- • Holey design limits its versatility for very full, wash-heavy passages.
- • The darker tone might not suit brighter, more modern playing styles.
- • While affordable, the hammering may exhibit slight inconsistencies.
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 474866
$164
#13
⭐
1.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
1/10
Value:
9/10
Zultan 17" Aja Crash
by
Zultan
Progressive
Rock
Power Playing
Key Feature:
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.
- • Relatively lightweight construction (around 1300g) promotes comfortable playing.
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.
- • Finish is prone to oxidation if not properly cared for – requires regular cleaning.
⭐
1.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
1/10
Detail:
1/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 273921
$94
How to Choose the Best 17" Crash Cymbals
1
Sound Character
Zultan's unique alloy-a blend of B20 bronze with a touch of silver-gives these crashes a surprisingly warm, complex tone. It's not a wash; it's got a focused character, a nice, clear stick definition with a rapid decay. You get that musicality without the endless sustain some other brands drown in.
2
Articulation & Dynamics
These respond incredibly well to subtle changes in stick pressure. You can dial in a whisper-quiet ghost note or really lay into it for a powerful, full-bodied crash. That responsiveness is key for nuanced playing.
3
Build Quality & Lathing
The hammering is superb - consistently even and precise. The thin lathing contributes to the fast response and bright character, but it doesn't feel fragile. It's a delicate balance, and Zultan nails it.
4
Cutting Through the Mix
While not aggressively loud, the 17" Zultan crashes have a surprising ability to cut through a dense mix. That focused frequency response makes them audible even with guitars and vocals vying for space. Think controlled energy, not just sheer volume.
5
Heritage & Craftsmanship
Zultan isn't some factory-churned brand. They're rooted in a tradition of Turkish cymbal making, and you can hear it. The care and attention to detail are evident in every cymbal, which translates to a more musical and nuanced sound.
Buying Guide
Look, Zultan 17" crashes aren't cheap. You're paying for that hand-hammered quality and the unique alloy. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true - chances are they're not genuine Zultan. If you're primarily a metal player needing a loud, aggressive crash, these might not be your first choice; they're best suited for genres where musicality and articulation are prized. This isn't a cymbal to bash through a wall with, it's a cymbal to play.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 13 17" crash cymbals from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
The AAX is brighter and more polished, designed to cut through almost anything. Zultan is more complex and musical, leaning towards a warmer, more vintage vibe. The AAX is loud; the Zultan is articulate.
They're thinner than some heavier rock cymbals, but the hammering and alloy give them surprising durability. Treat them with respect, of course, but they can handle a good gigging schedule.
Absolutely. The focused sound and quick decay make them perfect for close-miked recordings. You'll get a clear, defined crash without unwanted overtones.
Think jazz, funk, R&B, singer-songwriter - anything where you need a sophisticated and musical crash. They're also excellent for quieter rock or indie genres.
Yeah, they'll be fine with mesh heads, although you'll lose a bit of the sonic nuance. It's a bit of a waste of the cymbal's potential, but it'll work if you need it for quiet practice.
