AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 19" Crash Cymbals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal ($233). Meinl 19" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Crash Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 105 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
19" 900 Color Sound Crash PRP · Paiste
23 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
This 19-inch crash hits hard with a warm, full sound that works in almost any band. The purple color looks great, but the heavy bronze build and lack of weight info are worth noting.
Pros
- Warm undertone suits many musical styles
- Made from high quality B8 bronze alloy
- Full sound cuts through any mix easily
Cons
- No specific weight listed in description
- Sound character limited to warm tone
85AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$233 now$233€209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal
19" A-Series Medium Thin Crash · Zildjian
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
You get a 19 inch Zildjian A-Series crash with a brilliant finish. It is a medium thin crash from the Avedis series, so it suits you if you want a simple accent cymbal for your kit. Check the size and weight against how you play before you buy.
Pros
- Part of the Zildjian A-Series, from the well-known Avedis series
- 19 inch size, a common crash cymbal size
- Medium weight with a thin profile, made for crash accents
73AudioFu
Index↓ 2.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$412 · Aug 17$401 now$401€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 19" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal
19" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The Sabian XSR Fast Crash is a seriously responsive cymbal – it's quick, bright, and cuts through a mix beautifully. It’s a great choice for drummers needing a fast, articulate crash without a huge commitment to size or volume; perfect for studio work or smaller gigs where a big crash might overwhelm the kit.
Pros
- Bright, articulate wash with a quick, clean decay.
- B20 bronze construction delivers a musical, responsive tone.
- Thin profile enhances sensitivity and ease of playing.
Cons
- Lacks the sustain and depth of heavier, larger crash cymbals.
- Brilliant finish can be prone to finger smudging and patina.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$345 now$345€309 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 19" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal
19" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This Rude Crash/Ride is a beast – built for players who really lay into their cymbals. It’s got that signature Paiste Rude bronze growl and plenty of volume, making it perfect for rock, metal, and heavier styles where you need a cymbal that can keep up. It's a solid choice if you want a raw, powerful sound and don’t need a ton of versatility.
Pros
- Paiste’s signature Rude bronze delivers a uniquely earthy and aggressive tonal character.
- The heavy weight construction provides exceptional durability for hard-hitting styles.
- Versatile enough to function as both a crash and a ride, offering flexibility.
Cons
- The aggressive sound isn't suitable for quieter, more nuanced musical applications.
- Its substantial weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$378 now$378€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal
19" A-Series Thin Crash · Zildjian
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This is a super thin crash built for speed, not power. The B20 alloy gives you a brilliant, cutting sound that snaps right to your hand. It's ideal for players who need to cut through a loud band, but heavy hitters will find it too light and short-lived.
Pros
- Extremely thin B20 alloy body for quick response
- Brilliant finish adds a sharp, cutting edge
- Fast attack perfect for cutting through a mix
Cons
- Very thin may lack body for heavy hitters
- Not suitable for drummers playing with force
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$390 now$390€349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
The 2002 Black Big Beat is a seriously cool cymbal. It’s a versatile hybrid – a crash with ride-like qualities – perfect for players seeking a darker, more complex sound than the standard 2002 series. It's a great choice for rock, fusion, and heavier genres where you want a powerful, yet articulate crash.
Pros
- Rich, complex wash with a controlled, dark character
- Hammering creates a unique, powerful, yet musical response
- CuSn8 bronze provides warmth and projection, classic Paiste tone
Cons
- Price point places it at the higher end of the market
- Darker sound may not suit brighter musical styles or drummers
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$390 now$390€349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 19" Classics Custom Dual Crash Cymbal
19" Classics Custom Dual Crash · Meinl
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This 19" Classics Custom Dual Crash from Meinl is a real workhorse. It's got a fantastic warm core with a surprisingly powerful bell for cutting through a mix, making it a great choice for rock, pop, and heavier genres where you need both subtlety and impact. It’s a solid, reliable cymbal that won't let you down.
Pros
- The B-12 bronze alloy delivers a uniquely warm and complex tonal foundation.
- Dual bell design provides a powerful, cutting high-frequency accent when struck.
- Dark surface combined with brilliant finish offers a dynamic range of sonic possibilities.
Cons
- The warm character might be too subdued for players seeking aggressively bright crashes.
- While versatile, it doesn't offer the extreme wash of larger, thinner crashes.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$267 now$267€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 19" 2002 Extreme Crash Cymbal
19" 2002 Extreme Crash · Paiste
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The 2002 Extreme is a powerhouse crash – seriously loud and cuts through anything. It’s built tough and has a really responsive attack, making it perfect for rock, metal, and anyone needing a cymbal that can really be heard. Just be aware it's not a subtle cymbal; it's all about making a statement.
Pros
- CuSn8 bronze delivers a bright, penetrating sound with excellent projection.
- The hammering creates a responsive, cutting attack that cuts through dense mixes.
- Improved durability handles aggressive playing without excessive fatigue or cracking.
Cons
- Its bright character may not suit quieter, more nuanced musical styles.
- The Extreme series can be somewhat unforgiving to sloppy technique.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$378 now$378€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 19" RUDE Thin Crash Cymbal
19" Rude Thin Crash · Paiste
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The Rude Thin is a surprisingly versatile crash. It's got a dark, smoky sound with a shimmering brilliance that cuts through, but remains controlled. Great for rock, funk, and anything needing a quick, responsive crash that doesn’t overpower the kit.
Pros
- Brilliant sparkle contrasts dark undertones, creating complex wash
- Responsive and explosive character ideal for dynamic playing
- Compact sound profile sits well in dense drum mixes
Cons
- Rude series can be a bit brittle compared to heavier Paistes
- Thin nature limits its suitability for very aggressive playing styles
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$378 now$378€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 19" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Crash Cymbal
19" Pure Alloy Custom Crash · Meinl
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This 19in Meinl Pure Alloy Custom Crash is a beautifully made cymbal with a warm, controlled sound. It’s ideal for players seeking a responsive crash that cuts through without being overly splashy – think jazz, funk, or even quieter rock settings where you want a musical accent.
Pros
- German craftsmanship delivers exceptional build quality and consistency
- The smoke bronze finish provides a unique aesthetic and subtly alters tonal response
- Medium-thin weight offers a responsive feel and quick attack for dynamic playing
Cons
- The shorter sustain might limit its effectiveness in louder, more complex arrangements
- Pure Alloy series leans towards a darker sound, potentially lacking brightness for some players
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$412 now$412€369 at Thomann · in stockCheck 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.
- 11
Meinl 19" Classics Custom Dark CrashMeinl68Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 12
Sabian 19" Stratus Crash Cymbal19" Stratus Dry Crash · Sabian63↓ 1.5%$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 13
Sabian 19" Stratus Crash Cymbal19" Stratus Crash · Sabian62Stable$408€365$408€365Check ↗
- 14
Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal19" 900 Series Crash · Paiste74Stable$221€198$221€198Check ↗
- 15
Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Brilliant Crash19" Xist Crash Brilliant · Istanbul Agop60Stable$329€295$329€295Check ↗
- 16
Meinl 19" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Crash19" Classics Extreme Crash · Meinl60Stable$251€225$251€225Check ↗
- 17
Paiste 19" RUDE Wild Crash Cymbal19" Rude Wild Crash · Paiste58Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 18
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal19" Paper Thin Crash Tradit. · Istanbul Mehmet54Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 19
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal19" Thin Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet54Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 20
Sabian 19" AAX Crystal Thin Crash Cymbal19" AAX Crystal Thin Crash · Sabian54Stable$444€398$444€398Check ↗
- 21
Paiste 2002 Classic 19" Power CrashPaiste53Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 22
Paiste 2002 Classic 19" CrashPaiste53Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 23
Paiste 2002 Classic 19" Thin CrashPaiste53Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 24
Zultan 19" Alaris CrashZultan52Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 25
Zultan 19" Aeon Thin CrashZultan52Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 26
Zultan 19" Dune CrashZultan52Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 27
Zultan 19" Q CrashZultan52Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 28
Zultan 19" Q Thin CrashZultan52Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 29
Zultan 19" Z-Series CrashZultan52Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 30
Zultan 19" Aeon CrashZultan52Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 31
Zultan 19" Dune Trash CrashZultan52Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
- 32
Zultan 19" Heritage CrashZultan52Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 33
Meinl Pure Alloy 19" Medium CrashMeinl51Stable$352€315$352€315Check ↗
- 34
Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal19" 900 Color Heavy Crash BK · Paiste62Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 35
Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal19" 900 Series Heavy Crash · Paiste62Stable$221€198$221€198Check ↗
- 36
Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Dry Dark Brill. CrashIstanbul Agop49Stable$329€295$329€295Check ↗
- 37
Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Dark ION TrashIstanbul Agop49Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 38
Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Dark ION CrashIstanbul Agop49Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 39
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Black Bell CrashIstanbul Mehmet49Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 40
Istanbul Agop 19" Traditional Thin CrashIstanbul Agop49Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 41
Istanbul Agop 19" Traditional Dark CrashIstanbul Agop49Stable$430€385$430€385Check ↗
- 42
Ufip 19" Bionic Series CrashUfip48Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 43
Ufip 19" Class Series Crash MediumUfip48Stable$372€333$372€333Check ↗
- 44
Ufip 19" Blast Series CrashUfip48Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 45
Ufip 19" Blast Extra Dry CrashUfip48Stable$419€375$419€375Check ↗
- 46
Zultan 19" Rock Beat Crash HoleyZultan52Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 47
Zultan 19" Caz Crash/RideZultan52Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 48
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Medium Crash Cymbal19" Medium Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet46↓ 2.8%$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 49
Istanbul Mehmet 19" IMC Dark Crash Cymbal19" Crash IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet44Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 50
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Dark Crash Cymbal19" Dark Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet44Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
19" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 109 models we track, not a sample.
Median $401 — half of all 19" crash cymbals here cost less.
median of 109 models · 19"–19"
How to choose the best 19" crash cymbals
Wash vs. Articulation
Intermediate players need a balance. Too much wash buries your accents; too little articulation and you sound brittle. We're looking for a crash that responds to your stick control, not one that just rings forever.
Sustain & Decay
You want enough sustain to make a statement, but a controlled decay so it doesn't muddy the mix. A long, uncontrolled sustain isn't your friend when you're trying to play a tight groove.
Timbre & Complexity
Forget the thin, one-note sound. Intermediate players are starting to appreciate nuance. We're looking for a cymbal with some harmonic complexity - a little shimmer, a little dark woodiness - that adds character to your playing.
Action & Playability
A stiff cymbal can fight you. You want something that responds to a medium stick attack, without feeling floppy or uncontrolled. The bow needs to be responsive, not sluggish.
Durability & Latency
Gigs happen. You need a cymbal that can handle a few solid hits without cracking or developing unwanted keyholing. Consistent, reliable performance is key, especially when you're building your reputation.
Buying guide
So, you're past the basic 14" crash and starting to want a little more meat on the cymbal, huh? A 19" crash is a sweet spot - big enough to cut through a rock band, articulate enough for quieter jazz gigs, and generally a good all-rounder. But not all 19" crashes are created equal; you need something that won't choke your dynamics or sound like a trashcan lid. Let's break down what to look for.
At this level, you're not buying a museum piece, but you're also not settling for the cheapest thing on the shelf. Watch out for cymbals that sound overly bright - that ice-picky high-end can be fatiguing. Don't be afraid to spend a little more for better lathing and hammering; it really affects the cymbal's responsiveness.
A well-hammered cymbal will speak much clearer. A slightly darker, more complex tone will almost always be more useful than a thin, bright one.
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
What's the difference between B8 and B20 bronze?
B20 (80% copper, 20% tin) generally offers a more complex, richer tone with better projection. B8 is cheaper but can sound thinner and less nuanced. For an intermediate player, B20 is worth the upgrade.
I play a lot of quiet jazz. Is a 19" crash too loud?
It can be, but look for a 'medium thin' or 'light-medium' weight 19". Also, consider the hammering pattern - more hammering often means more complexity and less wash, which helps control volume.
How do I tell if a cymbal is going to be too stiff?
Try pressing down on the bow with moderate force. It should give a little without feeling like you're wrestling it. Also, listen for a quick, responsive 'ping' when you tap it - a sluggish response indicates stiffness.
Are pre-played cymbals a good deal?
Sometimes! You can often get a discount, but be sure to inspect them carefully for cracks or keyholing. A little stick mark is fine, but avoid anything that looks structurally compromised.
I'm switching from a 16" crash. What's the biggest adjustment?
The biggest change will be the increased volume and sustain. You'll need to be more mindful of your dynamics and stick placement to avoid overpowering the kit.
