AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 19" Crash Cymbals for Intermediate 2026

The top pick is Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal ($235). 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: October 19, 2026

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

Narrow the chart

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

Top 10

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

  1. Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal

    19" 900 Color Sound Crash PRP · Paiste

    19 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
    83AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand76
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$235 now
    $235€209 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal

    19" A-Series Medium Thin Crash · Zildjian

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size19"

    This 19' A-Series crash is a real workhorse – versatile enough for a wide range of genres, but shines in rock, pop, and funk. The medium-thin weight gives it a lovely, quick response and a beautiful wash without being overwhelming. It's a solid upgrade for intermediate to advanced players seeking a reliable, premium-priced crash.

    Pros

    • Brilliant finish provides excellent visual appeal and projection.
    • Medium-thin profile delivers a warm, musical, and responsive wash.
    • Avedis hammering creates complex overtones and a shimmering decay.

    Cons

    • Can be somewhat loud for quieter, more nuanced playing styles.
    • Brilliant finish is prone to finger smudging and requires regular cleaning.
    73AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand81
    • Lineup43
    • Price58
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    ↓ 2.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $415 · Aug 17$404 now
    $404€359 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

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

    19" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian

    20 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.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker88
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$348 now
    $348€309 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal

    19" A-Series Thin Crash · Zildjian

    24 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
    Index
    • Demand81
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$393 now
    $393€349 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Paiste 19" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal

    19" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste

    17 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.
    70AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand73
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$381 now
    $381€339 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. 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
    Index
    • Demand70
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$269 now
    $269€239 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Paiste 19" 2002 Black Big Beat Cymbal

    Paiste

    12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    67AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand65
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$393 now
    $393€349 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Paiste 19" 2002 Extreme Crash Cymbal

    19" 2002 Extreme Crash · Paiste

    11 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.
    66AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$381 now
    $381€339 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. 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
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand56
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$381 now
    $381€339 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Meinl 19" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Crash Cymbal

    19" Pure Alloy Custom Crash · Meinl

    10 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
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand61
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$415 now
    $415€369 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
    Sabian 19" Stratus Crash Cymbal19" Stratus Crash · Sabian
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$411€365
    $411€365Check ↗
  2. 12
    Sabian 19" Stratus Crash Cymbal19" Stratus Dry Crash · Sabian
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$444€395
    $444€395Check ↗
  3. 13
    Meinl 19" Classics Custom Dark CrashMeinl
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  4. 14
    Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Brilliant Crash19" Xist Crash Brilliant · Istanbul Agop
    Index 61Stable
    61
    Stable$332€295
    $332€295Check ↗
  5. 15
    Meinl 19" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Crash19" Classics Extreme Crash · Meinl
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$253€225
    $253€225Check ↗
  6. 16
    Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal19" 900 Series Crash · Paiste
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$223€198
    $223€198Check ↗
  7. 17
    Paiste 19" RUDE Wild Crash Cymbal19" Rude Wild Crash · Paiste
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  8. 18
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal19" Paper Thin Crash Tradit. · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  9. 19
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal19" Thin Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  10. 20
    Paiste 2002 Classic 19" Power CrashPaiste
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  11. 21
    Paiste 2002 Classic 19" CrashPaiste
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  12. 22
    Paiste 2002 Classic 19" Thin CrashPaiste
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  13. 23
    Zultan 19" Alaris CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  14. 24
    Zultan 19" Aeon Thin CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  15. 25
    Zultan 19" Dune CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  16. 26
    Zultan 19" Q CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  17. 27
    Zultan 19" Q Thin CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  18. 28
    Zultan 19" Z-Series CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  19. 29
    Zultan 19" Aeon CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  20. 30
    Zultan 19" Dune Trash CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  21. 31
    Zultan 19" Heritage CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  22. 32
    Meinl Pure Alloy 19" Medium CrashMeinl
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$354€315
    $354€315Check ↗
  23. 33
    Sabian 19" AAX Crystal Thin Crash Cymbal19" AAX Crystal Thin Crash · Sabian
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$448€398
    $448€398Check ↗
  24. 34
    Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Dry Dark Brill. CrashIstanbul Agop
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$332€295
    $332€295Check ↗
  25. 35
    Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Dark ION TrashIstanbul Agop
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  26. 36
    Istanbul Agop 19" Xist Dark ION CrashIstanbul Agop
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  27. 37
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" Black Bell CrashIstanbul Mehmet
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  28. 38
    Istanbul Agop 19" Traditional Thin CrashIstanbul Agop
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  29. 39
    Istanbul Agop 19" Traditional Dark CrashIstanbul Agop
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$433€385
    $433€385Check ↗
  30. 40
    Ufip 19" Bionic Series CrashUfip
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$359€319
    $359€319Check ↗
  31. 41
    Ufip 19" Class Series Crash MediumUfip
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$375€333
    $375€333Check ↗
  32. 42
    Ufip 19" Blast Series CrashUfip
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$415€369
    $415€369Check ↗
  33. 43
    Ufip 19" Blast Extra Dry CrashUfip
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$422€375
    $422€375Check ↗
  34. 44
    Zultan 19" Rock Beat Crash HoleyZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  35. 45
    Zultan 19" Caz Crash/RideZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  36. 46
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Medium Crash Cymbal19" Medium Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 46↓ 2.8%
    46
    ↓ 2.8%$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  37. 47
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" IMC Dark Crash Cymbal19" Crash IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  38. 48
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Dark Crash Cymbal19" Dark Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  39. 49
    Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Heavy Crash Cymbal19" Heavy Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  40. 50
    Zultan 19" F5 CrashZultan
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$235€209
    $235€209Check ↗

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

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.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 83Paiste 19" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal · $235€209
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