AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 19" Crash Cymbals for Beginner 2026

The top pick is Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal ($178). Zultan 19" Aja Crash gives you the most for the money at $134. Meinl 19" Classics Custom Dark Crash leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 105 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 18, 2026

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

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

Top 10

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

  1. Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal

    PST7 19" Thin Crash · Paiste

    10 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The PST7 19in Thin Crash is a solid, affordable option for drummers needing a light crash for quieter passages or subtle accents. It’s a dependable workhorse – not a flagship sound – perfect for beginner to intermediate players or those on a budget needing a reliable, bright cymbal.

    Pros

    • Bright, shimmering wash with a quick decay for subtle accents
    • CuSn8 bronze provides a warm, responsive feel
    • Paiste’s Swiss engineering ensures consistent quality and durability

    Cons

    • Lacks the sustain and complexity for heavier, more complex musical styles
    • Thin profile makes it susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand61
    • Lineup68
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$178 now
    $178€158 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal

    19" 900 Color Sound Crash RED · Paiste

    23 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This 900 Color Sound crash is a solid, reliable workhorse. It's got a warm, full tone that sits nicely in a mix – great for rock, pop, and even some jazz. If you need a dependable crash that won't break the bank and delivers a classic Paiste vibe, this is a fantastic choice.

    Pros

    • B8 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
    • The RED coloring enhances projection and perceived volume.
    • Universally usable across many musical genres and styles.

    Cons

    • The B8 alloy lacks the shimmering sustain of higher bronze alloys.
    • Coloring can slightly dampen the cymbal's natural overtones.
    85AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand81
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$219 now
    $219€195 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Zultan 19" Aja Crash

    Zultan

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The Zultan Aja 19' crash is a surprisingly good option for drummers seeking a bright, articulate crash without spending a fortune. It’s a real workhorse for rock, pop, and even some heavier styles, offering a quick response and a balanced harmonic profile that cuts through a mix. Great for gigging musicians or students building their kit.

    Pros

    • Bright, cutting sound with surprisingly long sustain for the price.
    • Zultan’s B20 bronze provides a warm, full harmonic content.
    • Relatively thin profile allows for quick, responsive crashes.

    Cons

    • The wash can be a bit overwhelming in dense, layered drum mixes.
    • Not the most versatile crash; excels in rock/pop, less so in jazz.
    52AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$134 now
    $134€119 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Zultan 19" Aja Blaze Crash

    Zultan

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This handmade 19-inch B20 bronze crash hits hard but fades quickly. It feels like a great choice for players who want punch without a long ring. The build quality is solid, even if we don't know the exact weight or finish yet. It works well in both loud jams and quiet rooms. You'll love the bright attack, but you might need to check the price tag before buying.

    Pros

    • Handmade construction ensures unique voice
    • B20 bronze offers rich tonal depth
    • Explosive attack for energetic players

    Cons

    • No finish type listed in text
    • Weight is not provided in data
    52AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$145 now
    $145€129 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal

    19" 900 Series Crash · Paiste

    23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    The Paiste 900 Series 19' crash is a solid, reliable workhorse. It’s a great all-around cymbal – not the flashiest, but it delivers a full, warm sound that sits well in a mix. Ideal for gigging musicians needing a dependable crash without a premium-priced tag.

    Pros

    • B8 bronze offers a warm, musical fundamental tone.
    • The slightly darker finish enhances the lathing details.
    • Versatile enough for various genres, from rock to jazz.

    Cons

    • B8 bronze isn’t as complex sounding as higher bronze alloys.
    • The sustain, while present, isn’t exceptionally long.
    73AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand81
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$223 now
    $223€198 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal

    19" 900 Series Heavy Crash · Paiste

    7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This 900 Series Heavy Crash is a workhorse – built to handle the volume and energy of rock and pop. The B8 bronze gives it a robust, warm sound that cuts through a mix without being overly splashy. If you need a dependable, well-built crash that can take a beating, this is a solid choice.

    Pros

    • Solid B8 bronze construction delivers reliable projection and durability
    • Heavy weight provides a full, warm tone with substantial low-end
    • Versatile enough for rock, pop, and heavier musical styles

    Cons

    • The darker finish can dampen brightness, limiting its suitability for very bright genres
    • B8 bronze isn’t as complex tonally as Paiste’s higher-end alloys
    62AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand53
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$223 now
    $223€198 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal

    19" 900 Color Heavy Crash BK · Paiste

    7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This 19' 900 Color Heavy Crash BK is a solid choice for drummers needing a powerful, full-bodied crash. It’s got that classic Paiste warmth and projection, perfect for rock, pop, and heavier styles where you want a statement crash without excessive shimmer. A good all-around workhorse cymbal.

    Pros

    • Rich, warm fundamental tone characteristic of Paiste’s 900 series.
    • Heavy weight provides a powerful, cutting crash with noticeable projection.
    • B8 bronze offers a bright, responsive feel without being overly brittle.

    Cons

    • The heavier weight may be fatiguing for extended playing.
    • 900 series sound is less versatile than some brighter Paiste lines.
    62AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand53
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$224 now
    $224€199 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Meinl 19" Classics Custom Dark Crash

    Meinl

    16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This 19' Classics Custom Dark Crash is a real workhorse. It's got a great dark, full sound that cuts through a mix without being overly aggressive – perfect for rock, pop, or anything needing a solid, dependable crash. A great all-around choice for intermediate to advanced players.

    Pros

    • B12 bronze delivers a warm, complex tonal character.
    • Excellent responsiveness allows for nuanced cymbal swells and ghost notes.
    • Natural finish enhances the cymbal's inherent resonance and projection.

    Cons

    • Dark sound may be too subdued for brighter musical styles.
    • The medium weight could feel a bit heavy for some drummers.
    68AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$246 now
    $246€219 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Zultan 19" Crash 25

    Zultan

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This Zultan 19” Crash 25 is a solid choice if you're after a versatile, well-rounded crash that’s not overly splashy. It’s a great all-arounder for pop, R&B, and even rock, offering a really nice, controlled sound without being too expensive.

    Pros

    • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex overtone structure.
    • Traditional hand-hammered finish provides a nuanced, responsive wash.
    • Excellent projection and sustain for a 19” crash, cuts through a mix.

    Cons

    • The finish, while attractive, may be prone to minor patina changes over time.
    • Might lack the extreme shimmer preferred by some players seeking a brighter crash.
    52AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$213 now
    $213€189 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Zultan 19" Raw Crash

    Zultan

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This Zultan 19' Raw Crash is a real find for drummers seeking a vintage-inspired, controlled crash. It's got a lovely, earthy tone that cuts through a mix without being overly splashy – perfect for jazz, acoustic, or anyone wanting a more organic crash sound.

    Pros

    • B20 bronze provides a warm, complex fundamental tone.
    • Hand-hammering creates unique sonic character and responsiveness.
    • Raw finish minimizes overtones for a drier, controlled crash.

    Cons

    • Raw finish can be prone to small marks and imperfections.
    • Limited versatility; excels in darker musical contexts.
    52AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$223 now
    $223€198 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
    Zultan 19" Holey Crash 25Zultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  2. 12
    Zultan 19" Dark Matter Holey CrashZultan
    Index 47↑ 11.8%
    47
    ↑ 11.8%$213€189
    $213€189Check ↗
  3. 13
    Zultan 19" Crash Dark MatterZultan
    Index 50↑ 5.3%
    50
    ↑ 5.3%$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  4. 14
    Meinl 19" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Crash19" Classics Extreme Crash · Meinl
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$253€225
    $253€225Check ↗
  5. 15
    Zultan 19" F5 CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$235€209
    $235€209Check ↗
  6. 16
    Zultan 19" Rock Beat CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$235€209
    $235€209Check ↗
  7. 17
    Zultan 19" Rock Beat Crash HoleyZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  8. 18
    Zultan 19" Caz Crash/RideZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  9. 19
    Zultan 19" Alaris CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  10. 20
    Zultan 19" Aeon Thin CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  11. 21
    Zultan 19" Dune CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  12. 22
    Zultan 19" Q CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  13. 23
    Zultan 19" Q Thin CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  14. 24
    Masterwork 19" Custom CrashMasterwork
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$242€215
    $242€215Check ↗
  15. 25
    Masterwork 19" Custom Rock CrashMasterwork
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$242€215
    $242€215Check ↗
  16. 26
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" IMC Dark Crash Cymbal19" Crash IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  17. 27
    Zildjian 19" K Series Sweet Crash Cymbal19" K Sweet Crash · Zildjian
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  18. 28
    Zildjian 19" A Custom Crash Cymbal19" A-Custom Crash · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  19. 29
    Zildjian 19" A Custom Crash Cymbal19" Z Custom Crash · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  20. 30
    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 ↗
  21. 31
    Sabian 19" AAX Thin Crash Cymbal19" AAX Thin Crash · Sabian
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  22. 32
    Zildjian 19" K Custom Dark Crash Cymbal19" K-Custom Dark Crash · Zildjian
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  23. 33
    Sabian 19" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal19" HHX Legacy Crash · Sabian
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$573€509
    $573€509Check ↗
  24. 34
    Sabian 19" HHX Legacy Crash Cymbal19" FRX Crash · Sabian
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$584€519
    $584€519Check ↗
  25. 35
    Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal19" A-Series Thin Crash · Zildjian
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  26. 36
    Zildjian 19" K Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal19" K-Series Paper Thin Crash · Zildjian
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  27. 37
    Sabian 19" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal19" HHX Complex Thin Crash · Sabian
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$595€529
    $595€529Check ↗
  28. 38
    Sabian 19" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal19" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$348€309
    $348€309Check ↗
  29. 39
    Paiste 19" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal19" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$381€339
    $381€339Check ↗
  30. 40
    Zildjian 19" K Series Dark Thin Crash Cymbal19" K-Series Dark Crash Thin · Zildjian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  31. 41
    Sabian 19" HHX Evolution Crash Cymbal19" HHX Evolution Crash · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$584€519
    $584€519Check ↗
  32. 42
    Sabian 19" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal19" HHX plosion Crash · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$595€529
    $595€529Check ↗
  33. 43
    Zildjian 19" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal19" A-Custom Projection Crash · Zildjian
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$472€419
    $472€419Check ↗
  34. 44
    Zildjian 19" K Custom Hybrid Crash Cymbal19" K-Custom Hybrid Crash · Zildjian
    Index 69↓ 1.1%
    69
    ↓ 1.1%$500€444
    $500€444Check ↗
  35. 45
    Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Dual Crash · Meinl
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$512€455
    $512€455Check ↗
  36. 46
    Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash · Meinl
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$550€489
    $550€489Check ↗
  37. 47
    Paiste 19" 2002 Black Big Beat CymbalPaiste
    Index 68Stable
    68
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  38. 48
    Paiste 19" Masters Dark Crash Cymbal19" Masters Dark Crash · Paiste
    Index 68Stable
    68
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  39. 49
    Paiste 19” Signature Fast Crash Cymbal19" Signature Fast Crash · Paiste
    Index 68Stable
    68
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  40. 50
    Paiste 19" 2002 Extreme Crash Cymbal19" 2002 Extreme Crash · Paiste
    Index 67Stable
    67
    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

Playability

For a beginner, ease of response is key. You want a cymbal that doesn't require a ton of force to get a sound, and that reacts consistently to different dynamics. A stiff cymbal will fight you, making it harder to develop a feel.

Sustain & Wash

A little sustain is good - it adds fullness. But too much wash can muddy the mix, especially when you're playing with other instruments. We're looking for a balance that allows the crash to cut through without drowning out everything else.

Overall Tone

Beginners often struggle with cymbal articulation, so a cymbal with a clear, defined tone will be more forgiving. Avoid anything overly dark or muffled - you want to hear what you're hitting! That 'ping' is your friend.

Durability

Student cymbals often take a beating. We're prioritizing models that can withstand regular gigging and practice without cracking or developing too many unwanted markings too quickly.

Price-to-Value

Let's be honest, you're not dropping thousands on cymbals right now. We're looking for the best sound and feel for the money - identifying where corners are cut and whether they're acceptable for a beginner.

Buying guide

So you're starting out on drums, awesome! A 19" crash is a fantastic size for a beginner - not too huge, not too small, offering a good balance of wash and articulation. But wading through the cymbal jungle can be overwhelming. Let's cut through the hype and find you a crash that'll sound decent, be easy to play, and won't break the bank - because you've probably already spent a fortune on the kit itself.

Don't chase the 'brightest' cymbal you can find - a harsh, ice-picky top end is fatiguing and doesn't sound good with most music. Budget cymbals often use heavier alloys, which can make them feel stiff and unresponsive. Spending a little more on a bronze alloy (even if it's not B20) often yields a noticeable improvement in playability.

Ultimately, listen to as many cymbals as you can before you buy - even if it's just YouTube videos.

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 bronze cymbals really worth the extra cost?

Bronze (B20 - 80% copper, 20% tin) generally offers a more complex and nuanced tone than brass. It's not always a huge difference for a beginner, but you'll hear it, especially as you improve. Brass cymbals are cheaper, but often sound more 'one-dimensional' and can be harsher.

What's the difference between 'medium' and 'thin' crash cymbals?

'Medium' cymbals are more versatile, offering a good balance of sustain and articulation. 'Thin' cymbals have more sustain and a washier sound, but can be harder to control for a beginner. Start with a medium - you can always go thinner later.

I've heard about 'brill' - what is it?

'Brill' is the shiny, bright surface of a cymbal. It's created by hammering and lathing. More brill generally means a brighter, more responsive sound, but too much can be harsh. It's a subjective preference, really.

Can I use a thinner crash as my main crash?

You can, but be prepared to baby it. Thinner cymbals are more delicate and prone to cracking, especially if you hit hard or play a lot of gigs. A medium crash is generally a more practical choice for a beginner's kit.

What about packs of cymbals? Are they a good deal?

Cymbal packs can be a good way to get started cheaply, but be wary. The quality often suffers to keep the price down. You're better off buying individual cymbals, even if it means starting with just a crash and a ride.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 71Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal · $178€158
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