AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 19" Crash Cymbals for Professional 2026
The top pick is Sabian 19" Artisan Thin Crash ($769). Zildjian 19" K Series Sweet Crash Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $501. 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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- Size19"
The Sabian Artisan Thin is a beautifully crafted crash, perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, nuanced sound. It's ideal for jazz, orchestral, or any style where a warm, controlled wash is paramount—not your go-to for a metal show, but a truly gorgeous cymbal for the right application.
Pros
- Exceptional warm wash with a focused, musical decay.
- B20 bronze delivers a complex harmonic profile.
- Hand-hammering creates a responsive, dynamic feel.
Cons
- Price point places it firmly in the high-end cymbal category.
- May lack the raw, aggressive cut needed for heavier genres.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$769 now$769€689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 19" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal
19" HHX Complex Thin Crash · Sabian
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This is a 19 inch thin crash from Sabian's HHX Complex series. It is made from B20 bronze and has a hammered bell, so you get a clear stick attack on top of the crash. The maker calls it universally applicable, so it can work for many kinds of playing.
Pros
- Made from B20 bronze, a common cymbal alloy
- Combines HH and HHX hammering for a varied surface
- Has a hammered bell for a distinct stick sound
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$591 now$591€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 19" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal
19" HHX plosion Crash · Sabian
21 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.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$591 now$591€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$579 now$579€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 19" HHX Evolution Crash Cymbal
19" HHX Evolution Crash · Sabian
22 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.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$579 now$579€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$568 now$568€509 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 19" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash Cymbal
19" HHX Complex O-Zone Crash · Sabian
11 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.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$602 now$602€539 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 19" Byzance Foundry Reserve Crash Cymbal
19" Byzance Foundry Reserve CR · Meinl
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The Meinl Foundry Reserve CR is a seriously gorgeous cymbal. Its warm, dark tone and quick response make it surprisingly adaptable across genres, though it really shines in jazz, Latin, and soulful settings. This is a premium-priced investment for the discerning player seeking a truly hand-crafted sound.
Pros
- Exceptional B20 bronze tonal complexity; warm, dark, and musical.
- Hand-hammering creates a beautifully nuanced, responsive wash.
- Fast attack and shortened sustain offer surprising versatility.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- Darker sound may not suit brighter musical genres like metal.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$586 now$586€525 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 19" Signature Dark Energy Mark I Crash Cymbal
19" Signature Dark Energy MKI · Paiste
12 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.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$557 now$557€499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 19" K Series Sweet Crash Cymbal
19" K Sweet Crash · Zildjian
49 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
You get a 19 inch crash cymbal that responds fast and has a dark, round sound. It suits you if you want a crash that blends in and responds quickly when struck. Listen to it in person if you can, so you know if that sound fits what you play.
Pros
- Part of Zildjian's K series, a line known for its dark sound
- Dark and fast responding, so it speaks quickly when struck
- Random hammering gives it a distinct, varied character
79AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$501 now$501€449 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
Sabian 19" HHX Redlight Crash Cymbal19" HHX Redlight Crash · Sabian54Stable$597€535$597€535Check ↗
- 12
Sabian 19" HHX HHXtreme Crash NaturalSabian52Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 13
Zildjian 19" A Custom Crash Cymbal19" A-Custom Crash · Zildjian75Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 14
Zildjian 19" A Custom Crash Cymbal19" Z Custom Crash · Zildjian75Stable$479€429$479€429Check ↗
- 15
Paiste 19" 602 Medium CrashPaiste53Stable$579€519$579€519Check ↗
- 16
Sabian 19" HHX HHXtrem CrashSabian52Stable$579€519$579€519Check ↗
- 17
Sabian 19" AAX Thin Crash Cymbal19" AAX Thin Crash · Sabian73↓ 2.3%$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 18
Zildjian 19" K Custom Dark Crash Cymbal19" K-Custom Dark Crash · Zildjian73Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 19
Zildjian 19" K Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal19" K-Series Paper Thin Crash · Zildjian72Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 20
Zildjian 19" K Series Dark Thin Crash Cymbal19" K-Series Dark Crash Thin · Zildjian71Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 21
Paiste 19" Thin Crash 602 SeriesPaiste53Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
- 22
Paiste 19" 602 Mod. Essentials CrashPaiste53Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
- 23
Zildjian 19" A Custom Projection Crash Cymbal19" A-Custom Projection Crash · Zildjian70Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 24
Paiste 19" Masters Dark Crash Cymbal19" Masters Dark Crash · Paiste69Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 25
Zildjian 19" K Custom Hybrid Crash Cymbal19" K-Custom Hybrid Crash · Zildjian68↓ 1.1%$496€444$496€444Check ↗
- 26
Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Dual Crash · Meinl68Stable$508€455$508€455Check ↗
- 27
Paiste 19” Signature Fast Crash Cymbal19" Signature Fast Crash · Paiste68Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 28
Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash · Meinl68Stable$546€489$546€489Check ↗
- 29
Paiste 19" Signature Full Crash Cymbal19" Signature Full Crash · Paiste67Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 30
Zildjian 19" K Custom Special Dry Trash Crash Cymbal19" K Custom Special Dry Trash · Zildjian67Stable$524€469$524€469Check ↗
- 31
Meinl 19" Byzance Traditional Medium-Thin Crash19" Byzance Med. Thin Crash B. · Meinl67Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 32
Meinl 19" Byzance Traditional Medium-Thin Crash19" Byzance Medium Thin Crash · Meinl67Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 33
Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal19" A-Series Medium Thin Crash · Zildjian73↓ 2.7%$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 34
Sabian 19" AA Spotlight Crash Cymbal19" AA Spotlight Crash · Sabian66Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 35
Istanbul Agop 19" Signature Mel Lewis Crash/Ride19" Agop Signature Crash · Istanbul Agop66Stable$490€439$490€439Check ↗
- 36
Meinl 19" Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash19" Byzance Extra Thin Crash · Meinl65Stable$508€455$508€455Check ↗
- 37
Sabian 19" AAX Heavy Crash Cymbal19" AAX Heavy Crash · Sabian64Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 38
Zildjian 19" K Custom Hybrid Trash Smash Cymbal19" K-Custom Hybr. Trash Smash · Zildjian63Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 39
Meinl 19" Byzance Traditional Polyphonic Crash Cymbal19" Byzance Polyphonic Crash · Meinl63Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 40
Zildjian 19" A Series Medium Thin Crash Cymbal19" A-Series Thin Crash · Zildjian71Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 41
Paiste 19" Signature Reflector Heavy Full Crash Cymbal19" Reflector Heavy Full Crash · Paiste62Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 42
Paiste 19" Signature Power Crash Cymbal19" Signature Power Crash · Paiste62Stable$546€489$546€489Check ↗
- 43
Sabian 19" Stratus Crash Cymbal19" Stratus Dry Crash · Sabian63↓ 1.5%$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 44
Paiste 19" RUDE Crash / Ride Cymbal19" Rude Crash/Ride · Paiste71Stable$378€339$378€339Check ↗
- 45
Paiste 19" 2002 Black Big Beat CymbalPaiste68Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 46
Paiste 19" Masters Extra Thin Cymbal19" Masters Extra Thin Crash · Paiste59Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 47
Meinl 19" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Crash Cymbal19" Pure Alloy Custom Crash · Meinl64Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 48
Paiste 19" 2002 Extreme Crash Cymbal19" 2002 Extreme Crash · Paiste67Stable$378€339$378€339Check ↗
- 49
Sabian 19" AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal19" XSR Fast Crash · Sabian72Stable$345€309$345€309Check ↗
- 50
Sabian 19" Stratus Crash Cymbal19" Stratus Crash · Sabian62Stable$408€365$408€365Check ↗
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. Stick Definition
A pro needs a crash that doesn't just wash over everything. It needs to articulate clearly, even at higher volumes. Too much wash, and it disappears in a dense mix; too much stick definition, and it sounds brittle.
Sustain & Decay
Sustain is important, obviously, but how it decays matters more. A crash that rings forever can be fatiguing; a crash that dies too quickly feels lifeless. We're looking for a decay that's musical, not abrupt.
Dynamic Range
Can it whisper with a gentle tap and roar with a power stroke? A limited dynamic range feels restrictive and unprofessional. You need to be able to shape the sound with your playing.
Harmonic Complexity
A flat, one-dimensional tone is boring. We're searching for crashes with a range of overtones - that subtle shimmer, that warm bell-like quality, that controlled trashiness - that add character and blend well with different music styles.
Weight & Feel
This is hugely subjective, but a professional needs a crash that feels responsive and balanced. Too heavy, and it's tiring to play; too light, and it feels flimsy. The action - how it reacts to the stick - needs to be immediate and predictable.
Buying guide
Let's be honest, a 19" crash isn't a beginner's size. You're looking for something versatile - loud enough to cut through a rock band, but controllable enough for quieter jazz gigs, and something that won't completely wreck your ears in a bedroom practice session. Finding a 19" that nails that balance, while still offering some complexity and character, takes some digging. This isn't about the brightest, loudest thing you can find; it's about a tool that expands your sonic palette.
Don't chase the loudest crash you can find. That's a recipe for tinnitus. Pay attention to the hammer marks - they're a window into the cymbal's character.
Cheaper 19" crashes often cut corners on lathing and hammering, resulting in a dull, lifeless sound. If you're serious, invest in a crash that's been carefully crafted, even if it means a higher price tag. A well-made 19" is a workhorse - it'll last you years and sound better with age.
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 B8 bronze cymbals ever suitable for a pro?
B8 alloys can be decent for the price, but generally, pros benefit from B20 bronze. The tonal complexity just isn't there in B8, and you'll often hear a metallic, one-dimensional quality. It's a trade-off - you save money, but you lose nuance.
I need a crash that cuts through a loud rock band. Is 19" too small?
It can be. A 19" is more about versatility than sheer volume. You might need to pair it with a larger, more explosive crash, or use heavier sticks and more aggressive striking techniques.
What's the difference between a 'medium' and 'thin' 19" crash?
Generally, 'medium' will have more weight and sustain, offering better control and projection. 'Thin' will be more responsive and have a quicker decay, but might lack the power to cut through a loud band. It's all about feel and desired sonic character.
Can I use a 19" crash as my primary crash?
Absolutely, if it fits your style. Many pros use smaller crashes for their clarity and control. Just be realistic about its volume limitations, especially in high-energy situations.
I'm hearing a lot about 'trash stacks'. Can I get that sound from a single 19" crash?
Some crashes have a naturally trashy character - lots of high-frequency overtones and a raw, edgy sound. You can enhance that with careful stick selection and striking location, but you won't get the full effect of a stack. It's a different vibe entirely.
