AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Istanbul Mehmet 18" Ride Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Istanbul Mehmet 18" Turk Jazz Ride Cymbal ($348). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 6 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 6
Full detail for the 6 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Istanbul Mehmet 18" Turk Jazz Ride Cymbal
18" Jazz Ride Siz. Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size18"
This Istanbul Mehmet Jazz Ride is a real gem for the discerning player. It's perfect for jazz, brushwork, and quieter gigs where you want a sophisticated, nuanced sound. The unlathed surface and lower bell create a beautifully controlled, vintage-inspired tone that cuts through without being overpowering.
Pros
- Unlathed surface delivers a uniquely dry, controlled, and focused sound.
- Lower bell provides a darker, more mellow wash than typical ride cymbals.
- Turk series construction yields a complex overtone profile, subtly shimmering.
Cons
- Limited versatility; excels in jazz and quieter settings, less ideal for heavier rock.
- The unlathed finish might require more frequent cleaning to maintain clarity.
72AudioFu
Index↓ 1.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$354 · Aug 17$348 now$348€309 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 18" Turk Jazz Ride Cymbal
18" Jazz Ride Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size18"
This Istanbul Mehmet Turk Jazz Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal perfect for jazz, vintage-inspired music, or anyone seeking a sophisticated, understated ride. It's got a really warm stick sound and a controlled wash – not too splashy, just a rich, complex character. A great choice for drummers who want a refined, classic tone.
Pros
- Unlathed surface delivers a remarkably dry and controlled wash.
- Lower bell creates a warm, muted stick definition and response.
- Turk series offers a unique, complex overtone profile without being overwhelming.
Cons
- The lighter weight might not suit drummers needing a more cutting ride.
- Its darker character limits versatility in very bright, modern musical styles.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$354 now$354€315 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 18" Turk Medium Ride Cymbal
18" Medium Ride Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size18"
This Istanbul Mehmet Turk ride is a fantastic choice if you're after a controlled, articulate sound—perfect for jazz, rock, or any genre where you need to hear the sticks clearly without a wash that overwhelms. The unlathed surface really delivers that dry, woody character, and it's surprisingly versatile despite its focused tone. It's a real workhorse cymbal that’ll hold up well.
Pros
- Unlathed surface delivers a remarkably dry, controlled wash.
- The Turk series' hammering creates complex, nuanced overtones.
- Excellent responsiveness for intricate stick patterns and subtle dynamics.
Cons
- The dry sound isn't ideal for brighter, splashier musical styles.
- Can feel a bit stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Ping Ride Cymbal
18" Ping Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size18"
This Istanbul Mehmet Ping Ride is a real gem for jazz, bebop, and lighter fusion players. It's got that beautifully complex, vintage tone that's hard to find in modern cymbals, while still being responsive enough for subtle dynamics and clean stick articulation. A superb choice for drummers seeking a classic, understated ride.
Pros
- Warm, dark tone with surprising stick definition for its size.
- Hand-hammered lathing creates complex overtones and shimmer.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a classic, vintage cymbal character.
Cons
- Can be a bit quiet for louder, heavier musical styles.
- The darker tone might not suit brighter, more modern genres.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$366 now$366€325 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size18"
The Sizzle Turk is a seriously cool ride for players wanting a unique, slightly trashy vibe. Its dry character and sizzle provide a distinct sound, perfect for jazz, fusion, or anyone wanting to add some rhythmic complexity without a full-on crash. It’s a well-built, expressive option for a mid-range budget.
Pros
- Unique sizzle effect adds complex rhythmic textures.
- Turk series offers a dry, controlled overtone response.
- Flat profile enhances stick definition and wash.
Cons
- Sizzle can be overly aggressive for very subtle playing.
- Turk series' dryness limits its versatility for brighter genres.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$348 now$348€309 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size18"
This Istanbul Mehmet Sizzle Flat Ride is a fantastic choice for players seeking a unique and articulate ride cymbal. It's got that classic Turkish warmth and a subtle 'sizzle' that adds a touch of shimmer without being overly splashy – perfect for jazz, fusion, and lighter rock applications where you want a focused, dry stick sound.
Pros
- Hand-hammered Tradition series provides exceptional responsiveness and complexity.
- The 'Sizzle' effect delivers a unique, shimmering wash without overwhelming stick definition.
- B20 bronze alloy offers a warm, dark tone with excellent projection.
Cons
- The 'Sizzle' can be a bit unpredictable in very dense, loud mixes.
- Traditional hammering means slight variations in sound, may not be perfectly consistent.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$354 now$354€315 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
18" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 19 models we track, not a sample.
median of 19 models · 18"–18"
How to choose the best 18" ride cymbals
Heritage & Craftsmanship
Istanbul Mehmet's roots are deep in Turkish cymbal making traditions, often using hand-hammering techniques and naturally aged alloys. This isn't mass production; you feel that human touch in the action and responsiveness.
Warmth & Complexity
Forget that ice-picky, brittle top end you get from some modern rides. Istanbul Mehmet's 18" rides generally offer a warmer, more complex tone with a lovely, almost vocal quality - it's got that fat midrange honk without being muddy.
Wash & Stick Definition
The best of these 18" rides find a real sweet spot. You get a beautiful, swelling wash that isn't overwhelming, while still retaining clear stick articulation - crucial for playing quieter passages or cutting through a dense mix without becoming a sonic mess.
Dynamic Range
These cymbals respond incredibly well to your playing dynamics. A light touch yields a subtle shimmer, while a more aggressive hit brings out a fuller, more powerful sound - it's really expressive and feels alive under the stick.
Build Quality & Lathe Work
The hammering and lathing are consistently well done. You can tell they're not cutting corners - the edges are smooth, the bell responds evenly, and the overall construction feels solid. This translates to better sustain and longevity.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're hunting for an 18" ride? Smart move - it's the sweet spot for a lot of us. Istanbul Mehmet's got a reputation for something different, a warmth and complexity you don't always find in the usual suspects. They're not just churning out shiny metal; there's a lineage, a feel, and a sonic character that's genuinely unique, and their 18" rides often nail that balance between wash and stick definition.
An 18" Istanbul Mehmet isn't going to be the cheapest option out there, and you're paying for that hand-crafted quality and unique tonal character. Watch out for overly bright or thin-sounding models - they can lack that signature warmth. If you're after a ride that can handle a wide range of styles, from jazz to rock, and you appreciate a complex, nuanced tone, an Istanbul Mehmet 18" is worth the investment.
Don't be afraid to try different series - the Vintage and Masters series are often a step up in complexity and responsiveness.
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 6 18" ride cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 19 in the category). 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 Istanbul Mehmet cymbals loud enough for a rock band?
Generally, yes. While they're known for their warmth, many models still project well and cut through a loud band mix, especially if you hit them with authority. The Vintage and Masters series tend to have more projection.
What's the difference between the Vintage and Masters series?
The Vintage series uses naturally aged alloys, giving them a darker, more complex tone. The Masters series are hand-hammered and often feature more intricate lathing patterns, resulting in a more responsive and articulate sound.
Do Istanbul Mehmet cymbals oxidize quickly?
Yes, they will darken over time, especially the Vintage series due to the naturally aged alloys. This is a good thing - it's part of their character - but you can slow it down with regular cleaning and maintenance.
Can I use these in a recording studio?
Absolutely. Their warm, complex tone translates beautifully in the studio. They're less harsh than some other brands, which can save you time and headaches in the mixing process.
Are they fragile?
They're not delicate, but they're also not indestructible. Handle them with care, avoid hitting them too close to the edge, and store them properly to prolong their life. Good cymbal care goes a long way.
