AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 19" Crash Cymbals for Advanced 2026

The top pick is Sabian 19" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal ($573). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 105 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 19, 2026

105models in this chart
9brands
$404median price
3price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 19" Crash Cymbals Showing: For Advanced · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

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

  1. Sabian 19" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal

    19" HHX Legacy Crash · Sabian

    21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The HHX Legacy Crash is a beautifully voiced cymbal, offering a dark and musical character that sits perfectly within a mix. It's a go-to for players seeking a sophisticated crash that's both powerful and articulate, especially those in jazz, fusion, or contemporary styles where subtlety and nuance are key.

    Pros

    • Exceptional dark, controlled wash perfect for nuanced dynamics
    • Dave Weckl’s signature provides a refined, musical response
    • Hammered bell delivers a clear, articulate, and shimmering tone

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
    • Darker sound may not suit brighter, more aggressive styles
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker88
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$573 now
    $573€509 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Sabian 19" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal

    19" FRX Crash · Sabian

    21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The Sabian FRX 19 is a really interesting cymbal. It’s designed to be quieter and more controlled than your average crash, which makes it brilliant for studio work or situations where you need to be mindful of volume. Perfect for drummers playing in more controlled environments or those seeking a less overwhelming crash sound.

    Pros

    • B20 bronze delivers warm, complex overtones despite the design.
    • Frequency reduction minimizes harshness, creating a controlled wash.
    • Excellent for drummers needing volume control without sacrificing presence.

    Cons

    • Limited versatility; not ideal for explosive, full-bodied crash sounds.
    • The reduced frequencies can feel 'deader' to some players’ ears.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker88
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$584 now
    $584€519 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Sabian 19" HHX Evolution Crash Cymbal

    19" HHX Evolution Crash · Sabian

    21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The Sabian HHX Evolution 19 in crash is a fantastic all-around crash – it’s responsive and articulate without being brittle. This is a great choice for gigging musicians and studio players needing a reliable, expressive crash that cuts through a mix, particularly in rock, pop, and contemporary music.

    Pros

    • Hand-hammered lathing creates a complex, shimmering wash unlike mass-produced cymbals.
    • HHX Evolution series delivers a remarkably fast and responsive feel for quick, nuanced playing.
    • Brilliant finish enhances projection and clarity, cutting through dense mixes effectively.

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, placing it beyond the reach of many beginner or budget-conscious drummers.
    • Brilliant finish shows fingerprints and handling marks easily, requiring careful maintenance.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker88
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$584 now
    $584€519 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Sabian 19" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal

    19" HHX Complex Thin Crash · Sabian

    20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This Complex Thin is a beautiful crash – seriously lush and musical. It's ideal for players seeking a warm, expressive sound with a touch of shimmer, especially in genres like jazz, fusion, and contemporary worship. The complexity adds a lot, but be mindful of its thinner build if you hit hard.

    Pros

    • Warm, complex overtones provide a uniquely musical wash.
    • B20 bronze alloy delivers a rich, full, and responsive sound.
    • Hammered bell produces a clear, articulate, and shimmering accent.

    Cons

    • The thinness makes it potentially vulnerable to cracking with aggressive playing.
    • Complex overtones might not suit all musical styles, feeling too busy for some.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker88
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$595 now
    $595€529 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Sabian 19" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal

    19" HHX plosion Crash · Sabian

    20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The HHX Plosion is a seriously responsive crash – it cuts through the mix beautifully without getting muddy. It’s a fantastic choice for rock, pop, and modern styles where you want a defined, impactful sound. If you’re looking for a crash that’s both articulate and powerful, this is a strong contender.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and articulation for nuanced playing.
    • HHX hammering creates complex overtones, avoiding a 'washy' sound.
    • Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
    • While versatile, excels in modern and rock genres; less ideal for orchestral work.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker88
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$595 now
    $595€529 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash Cymbal

    19" Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash · Meinl

    17 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This 19' Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash is a beautifully nuanced cymbal, perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, dry crash sound. It's a stellar choice for jazz, acoustic, and quieter studio settings where subtle textures and delicate washes are key. While not a powerhouse, its expressive qualities make it a real gem.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and stick definition thanks to the thin profile.
    • The 'Extra Dry' lathing creates a uniquely complex, shimmering wash.
    • B20 bronze provides a warm, musical tone with excellent sustain for its type.

    Cons

    • The very thin profile makes it fragile and prone to cracking with aggressive playing.
    • Limited dynamic range; excels in softer passages, struggles with heavy grooves.
    68AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand73
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$550 now
    $550€489 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Paiste 19" Signature Dark Energy Mark I Crash Cymbal

    19" Signature Dark Energy MKI · Paiste

    11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The Dark Energy MKI is a beautifully voiced crash—it's got a deep, dark character with a surprising shimmer. It’s a great choice for players who need versatility, from classical percussion to modern rock and pop, and appreciate a cymbal with a lot of personality.

    Pros

    • Dark, complex wash with shimmering high frequencies.
    • Excellent sensitivity for dynamic playing and subtle articulation.
    • Paiste's Signature Bronze alloy delivers a warm, resonant core.

    Cons

    • Signature Bronze is prone to developing patina, requiring maintenance.
    • The sustain can be a bit long for very dry, modern productions.
    66AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$562 now
    $562€499 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Sabian 19" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash Cymbal

    19" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash · Sabian

    12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This Complex O-Zone is a beautifully voiced crash, leaning towards a warmer, more sophisticated sound. It's perfect for players in jazz, orchestral, or modern rock settings who want a crash with character and a noticeable shimmer – it’s a real statement cymbal.

    Pros

    • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and nuanced wash.
    • Hammered bell provides a shimmering, articulate high-end response.
    • Six precisely placed holes maximize volume and create a controlled crash.

    Cons

    • The complex voicing might not suit players seeking a purely bright or thin crash.
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
    66AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand65
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker88
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$607 now
    $607€539 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Zildjian 19" K Series Sweet Crash Cymbal

    19" K Sweet Crash · Zildjian

    51 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The Zildjian K Sweet Crash is a beautifully voiced cymbal – it’s got that signature K warmth but with a surprising amount of responsiveness. It’s fantastic for players looking for a delicate yet impactful crash, especially suited for jazz, orchestral, and lighter rock styles where a darker, more refined sound is desired.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and warmth for a crash size
    • K Series bronze provides a complex, nuanced shimmer
    • Fast response allows for precise, controlled accents

    Cons

    • Can be a bit too bright for very dark, low-volume settings
    • Price point places it in the premium-priced category
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$505 now
    $505€449 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Paiste 19" Masters Dark Crash Cymbal

    19" Masters Dark Crash · Paiste

    13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The Paiste Masters Dark 19in crash is a beautifully voiced cymbal, perfect for jazz, fusion, and quieter genres where nuance and a dark, complex wash are essential. Its sensitive response and refined tone are a testament to Paiste’s craftsmanship and the input from top-tier players like Hutchinson and Ceccarelli – a real workhorse for the discerning drummer.

    Pros

    • Exceptional dark, smoky wash provides a unique sonic character.
    • Paiste’s signature Swiss bronze construction ensures lasting durability.
    • Soft playing feel makes it ideal for dynamic, nuanced playing.

    Cons

    • Limited versatility; not suitable for aggressive, high-volume styles.
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
    68AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand67
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$539 now
    $539€479 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 105 19" crash cymbals

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Paiste 19” Signature Fast Crash Cymbal19" Signature Fast Crash · Paiste
    Index 68Stable
    68
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  2. 12
    Meinl 19" Byzance Foundry Reserve Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Foundry Reserve CR · Meinl
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$591€525
    $591€525Check ↗
  3. 13
    Paiste 19" Signature Power Crash Cymbal19" Signature Power Crash · Paiste
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$550€489
    $550€489Check ↗
  4. 14
    Meinl 19" Byzance Traditional Medium-Thin Crash19" Byzance Med. Thin Crash B. · Meinl
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  5. 15
    Meinl 19" Byzance Traditional Medium-Thin Crash19" Byzance Medium Thin Crash · Meinl
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  6. 16
    Zildjian 19" K Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal19" K-Series Paper Thin Crash · Zildjian
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  7. 17
    Zildjian 19" K Custom Dark Crash Cymbal19" K-Custom Dark Crash · Zildjian
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  8. 18
    Zildjian 19" K Custom Special Dry Trash Crash Cymbal19" K Custom Special Dry Trash · Zildjian
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$528€469
    $528€469Check ↗
  9. 19
    Meinl 19" Byzance Traditional Polyphonic Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Polyphonic Crash · Meinl
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  10. 20
    Zildjian 19" K Series Dark Thin Crash Cymbal19" K-Series Dark Crash Thin · Zildjian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  11. 21
    Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Dual Crash · Meinl
    Index 68Stable
    68
    Stable$512€455
    $512€455Check ↗
  12. 22
    Zildjian 19" A Custom Crash Cymbal19" Z Custom Crash · Zildjian
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  13. 23
    Paiste 19" Signature Full Crash Cymbal19" Signature Full Crash · Paiste
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  14. 24
    Paiste 19" Masters Extra Thin Cymbal19" Masters Extra Thin Crash · Paiste
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  15. 25
    Zildjian 19" K Custom Hybrid Crash Cymbal19" K-Custom Hybrid Crash · Zildjian
    Index 69↓ 1.1%
    69
    ↓ 1.1%$500€444
    $500€444Check ↗
  16. 26
    Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash19" Byzance Extra Thin Crash · Meinl
    Index 65Stable
    65
    Stable$512€455
    $512€455Check ↗
  17. 27
    Paiste 19" Thin Crash 602 SeriesPaiste
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$562€499
    $562€499Check ↗
  18. 28
    Paiste 19" 602 Mod. Essentials CrashPaiste
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$562€499
    $562€499Check ↗
  19. 29
    Paiste 19" 602 Medium CrashPaiste
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$584€519
    $584€519Check ↗
  20. 30
    Sabian 19" HHX HHXtrem CrashSabian
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$584€519
    $584€519Check ↗
  21. 31
    Sabian 19" HHX HHXtreme Crash NaturalSabian
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$595€529
    $595€529Check ↗
  22. 32
    Sabian 19" Artisan Thin CrashSabian
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$775€689
    $775€689Check ↗
  23. 33
    Sabian 19" HHX Redlight Crash Cymbal19" HHX Redlight Crash · Sabian
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$602€535
    $602€535Check ↗
  24. 34
    Sabian 19" AAX Thin Crash Cymbal19" AAX Thin Crash · Sabian
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  25. 35
    Paiste 19" Signature Reflector Heavy Full Crash Cymbal19" Reflector Heavy Full Crash · Paiste
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  26. 36
    Zildjian 19" K Custom Hybrid Trash Smash Cymbal19" K-Custom Hybr. Trash Smash · Zildjian
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  27. 37
    Istanbul Agop 19" Signature Mel Lewis Crash/Ride19" Agop Signature Crash · Istanbul Agop
    Index 65Stable
    65
    Stable$494€439
    $494€439Check ↗
  28. 38
    Zildjian 19" A Custom Crash Cymbal19" A-Custom Crash · Zildjian
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  29. 39
    Zildjian 19" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal19" A-Custom Projection Crash · Zildjian
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$472€419
    $472€419Check ↗
  30. 40
    Sabian 19" AA Spotlight Crash Cymbal19" AA Spotlight Crash · Sabian
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$472€419
    $472€419Check ↗
  31. 41
    Sabian 19" AAX Heavy Crash Cymbal19" AAX Heavy Crash · Sabian
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$472€419
    $472€419Check ↗
  32. 42
    Sabian 19" AAX AAXplosion CrashSabian
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  33. 43
    Sabian 19" AAX Crystal Thin Crash Cymbal19" AAX Crystal Thin Crash · Sabian
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$448€398
    $448€398Check ↗
  34. 44
    Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal19" 900 Color Sound Crash RED · Paiste · 4 finishes
    Index 83Stable
    83
    Stable$219€195
    $219€195Check ↗
  35. 45
    Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal19" A-Series Medium Thin Crash · Zildjian
    Index 73↓ 2.7%
    73
    ↓ 2.7%$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  36. 46
    Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal19" 900 Series Crash · Paiste
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$223€198
    $223€198Check ↗
  37. 47
    Sabian 19" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal19" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$348€309
    $348€309Check ↗
  38. 48
    Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal19" A-Series Thin Crash · Zildjian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  39. 49
    Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash CymbalPST7 19" Thin Crash · Paiste · 2 finishes
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$178€158
    $178€158Check ↗
  40. 50
    Paiste 19" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal19" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$381€339
    $381€339Check ↗

19" Crash Cymbals by the numbers

Measured across all 109 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $404 — half of all 19" crash cymbals here cost less.

2
2
29
20
23
32
1
<$150$150–200$200–300$300–400$400–500$500–750$750+
Size19"

median of 109 models · 19"–19"

How to choose the best 19" crash cymbals

Sustain & Decay

It's not just about how long the cymbal rings, but how it rings. We're looking for a decay that isn't choked off too quickly, but also doesn't linger into unwanted frequencies, especially in a recording situation. A good 19" should have enough sustain to carry a phrase, but not so much that it clashes with the guitars.

Articulation & Wash

Advanced players need a crash that responds to subtle changes in dynamics. The best ones have a clear, defined articulation - a 'stick attack' that translates to a distinct sound - balanced with a controlled wash that adds depth and complexity. Too much wash and it's just a blurry mess.

Sonic Complexity

Forget that one-dimensional 'ping'. We want a cymbal with a layered sound - a blend of fundamental tones, overtones, and a touch of harmonic complexity. This is what gives a crash its character and makes it interesting to listen to, both live and in the studio.

Playability & Sensitivity

A heavy, sluggish cymbal is a nightmare. A 19" crash needs to be responsive to lighter stick strikes and nuanced playing styles. We're looking for something that feels effortless to play and doesn't require a ton of force to get a good sound.

Cut & Projection

Does it cut through the mix? A 19" crash isn't a ride - it needs to be heard. It needs enough projection to be audible alongside guitars, vocals, and bass without sounding harsh or brittle. Finding that sweet spot between projection and clarity is key.

Buying guide

Okay, so you're past the beginner crash phase and you're actually listening to your cymbals now. A 19" crash is a sweet spot - big enough to have some meat to it, but still manageable for dynamic playing and quick transitions. But just because it's a popular size doesn't mean all 19" crashes are created equal. Let's cut through the noise and find something that'll actually inspire your playing.

Don't be swayed by marketing hype. A lot of cheaper 19" crashes will suffer from a thin, washy sound or a brittle, icy top end. Spend a little more for a cymbal that's been hand-hammered or has a more complex lathing pattern - those details matter.

Also, consider the alloy - B20 is generally a safe bet, but experiment with B8 or even bronze blends if you're looking for a specific sonic character. Ultimately, it's about what sounds good to you, so try before you buy if you can.

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 109 19" 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 heavier 19" crashes better?

Not necessarily. Weight affects response and sustain. A heavier crash will have more sustain but might feel sluggish and harder to control. It depends on your playing style and the overall sound you're going for.

What's the difference between a crash and a crash/ride?

A crash is designed primarily for crashes, emphasizing a quick decay and clear articulation. A crash/ride tries to do both, but usually compromises on both. If you want a dedicated crash sound, stick with a true crash.

I'm recording. Should I prioritize a dark or bright 19" crash?

It depends on the song. A darker crash can add warmth and atmosphere, while a brighter one can cut through a dense mix. Experiment! Sometimes a little bit of both is what you need.

Can I use a 19" crash instead of a larger crash?

Absolutely, especially if you're after more control and a quicker response. It's a great option for players who want a versatile crash that isn't overwhelming.

Are vintage cymbals a good option for a 19" crash?

Vintage cymbals can be amazing, but they're also a gamble. You're paying a premium for age and patina, but you're also dealing with potential cracks, keyholing, and inconsistent sound. Proceed with caution and inspect thoroughly.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 71Sabian 19" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal · $573€509
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