AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 19" Orchestral Cymbals for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Zultan 19" Orchestra medium ($535). Sabian 19" Artisan Trad. Sym. MH leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 12 models across 4 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 7, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size19"
This pair of medium orchestra cymbals comes from traditional Turkish makers, which usually means reliable build quality. You get a handy handle included in the box, making them easy to lift and move. While the exact metal type and sound aren't listed here, the solid weight suggests they are built for real orchestral use.
Pros
- Turkish production ensures consistent traditional manufacturing quality.
Cons
- Description omits specific metal alloy or thickness details.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$535 now$535€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
These Zultan 19 inch Orchestras are a solid choice if you're building a classical or film score percussion setup. The dark, even tone blends beautifully in an ensemble, and the weight gives them real presence without being overly splashy. They’re a great option for serious students or professionals seeking a quality, affordable orchestral sound.
Pros
- Produces a warm, controlled wash ideal for classical and orchestral settings.
- Heavy weight provides excellent sustain and projection without excessive shimmer.
- Traditional Turkish hammering creates a complex, nuanced sonic texture.
Cons
- The dark, focused sound might lack versatility for modern, brighter styles.
- Heavier weight can be demanding for younger or less experienced players.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$535 now$535€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight4 kg
If you need big, traditional orchestral cymbals, these 19" Zultan Heavy cymbals fit that job. They come from traditional Turkish production and include a handle, so you can start playing right away. Expect a good amount of weight in your hands, so they suit players who are ready for that.
Pros
- Part of the Heritage Series, made in traditional Turkish production
- Heavy weight class, 4 kg per pair
- Comes with a Zultan cymbal handle BG1 included
Cons
- At 4 kg per pair, they are heavy to hold for long sessions
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$744 now$744€666 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight4.525 kg
These Sabian HH Germanic Brill cymbals are a serious step up for orchestral percussion. The dark, powerful tone and exceptional responsiveness make them a perfect choice for film composers and conductors seeking a refined, nuanced sound. They're built to last, but be prepared for the investment and their substantial weight.
Pros
- Exceptional dark, powerful tone ideal for orchestral and film scoring.
- Hand-hammered construction yields complex overtones and responsiveness.
- Germanic bronze alloy provides a unique, warm, and controlled sound.
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for most percussionists.
- Brilliant finish might be too bright for some orchestral applications.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$779 now$779€698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 19" A Stadium Medium Heavy Marching Cymbals (Pair)
19" A' Stadium MH · Zildjian
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
You get a pair of 19-inch Medium Heavy cymbals with extra weight for more volume. They were developed with drum corps specialists and are described as projecting into every corner of a stadium. If you want a smooth, bright, cutting sound with zing effects for big outdoor or large-venue playing, this pair suits that job.
Pros
- Medium Heavy weight with extra weight for additional volume
- Specially developed with the world's leading drum corps specialists
- Bright outside and traditional inside finish
Cons
- Pair weighs approx. 4.2 kg, which is heavy to hold for long stretches
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$859 now$859€769 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight5 kg
You get a 19 inch pair of orchestra cymbals in the Medium Heavy weight. The maker says this heavier version gives a clear and focused resonance. It suits you if you play in an orchestra or band and want a heavier pair with a focused ring, and it comes with a protector bag.
Pros
- Medium Heavy weight gives a heavier cymbal pair
- 19 inch size is a standard orchestral cymbal diameter
- Includes a cymbal protector/bag to keep the pair safe
Cons
- Weighs approximately 5.0 kg per pair, which is heavy to hold for long passages
70AudioFu
Index↓ 11.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,763 · Aug 17$1,562 now$1,562€1,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight5.8 kg
You get a pair of 19" heavy orchestral cymbals made for professional use. Their timbre stays even at every dynamic level, and the mid-focused core gives a balanced attack and sustain. They suit you if you play orchestral music and want a pair built for professional work.
Pros
- Heavy weight suits a strong, projecting orchestral sound
- Even timbre stays consistent across all dynamic levels
- Balanced attack and sustain with a mid-focused core sound
Cons
- Pair weighs approx. 5.8 kg, which can feel heavy over long passages
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,115 now$1,115€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
- Weight4.6 kg
You get a pair of 19 inch symphonic concert cymbals in the Medium Heavy class. They come with a leather concert handle, so you have a grip ready to go. This suits you if you play in an orchestra or concert band and want a cymbal pair in this size and weight.
Pros
- Medium Heavy weight class gives a sturdy build for orchestral playing
- Comes with a concert handle in leather for a secure grip
- Sold as a pair, so both cymbals come in one set
Cons
- Weighs about 4.6 kg per pair, which can feel heavy over long sessions
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,004 now$1,004€899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
These are 19-inch orchestra cymbals from Sabian's HHX Complex Espressivo Series, with a Natural finish and medium strength. They are built with trickle-down technology from the HHX, Legacy and Artisan lines, and use a mix of HH and HHX hammering with a rough bell. If you need a pair of orchestral cymbals, you will find them a good fit, and the loops come with them.
Pros
- Made with trickle-down technology from the HHX, Legacy and Artisan lines
- Combines HH and HHX hammering for a mix of two hammering styles
- Features a rough bell as part of its construction
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,283 now$1,283€1,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
These are 19 inch Sabian orchestra cymbals, sold as a pair with loops included. They combine low, medium and high partials, so you get a wide range from one set. If you play in an orchestra or concert band and want a cymbal that feels easy to handle, you should take a close look at this pair.
Pros
- Combines low, medium and high partials for a wide range of sound
- Described as having a smooth, robust and musical response
- Plays with absolute ease, according to the manufacturer
Cons
- Each pair weighs approx. 4.4 kg, so it is not light for long sessions
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,283 now$1,283€1,149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 12 19" orchestral cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
19" Orchestral Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 13 models we track, not a sample.
Median $1,004 — half of all 19" orchestral cymbals here cost less.
median of 13 models · 19"–19"
median of 6 models · 4 kg–5 kg
How to choose the best 19" orchestral cymbals
Playability
A beginner needs a cymbal that responds quickly and predictably to the stick. Less lathing, a lighter weight, and a more open character generally means easier articulation and a shorter learning curve. You don't want to fight the cymbal to get a decent sound.
Sustain & Decay
Too much sustain can be a nightmare when you're learning to control your dynamics. A shorter, more controlled decay is preferable, allowing for cleaner, more defined strokes.
Tone Color
We're looking for a balanced, clear tone - not overly bright or dark. A 'fundamental' tone that doesn't have a lot of unwanted overtones will be easier to blend in with an ensemble and will be more forgiving of imperfect technique.
Durability
Let's be honest, beginners aren't always the gentlest. While you don't need a tank, a cymbal that can withstand some abuse without cracking or developing unsightly dents is a bonus. B20 bronze is generally more durable than B8.
Wash & Cut
Orchestral cymbals shouldn't be overpowering. You need enough 'cut' to be heard in the mix, but not so much that you're drowning out the strings or woodwinds. A moderate wash is preferable to a thin, brittle sound.
Buying guide
So, you're getting into orchestral percussion? Awesome. A 19" orchestral cymbal is often the first size a beginner will encounter, and nailing the right one can make a huge difference in your sound and how quickly you develop. Forget about those shimmering, complex crashes you see the pros using; for now, you need something responsive, controllable, and forgiving - something that won't punish sloppy technique. Let's find you a good starting point.
Don't get seduced by the shiny marketing hype. A beginner 19" cymbal doesn't need to be hand-hammered or made from some exotic alloy. Look for something that's clearly aimed at students or intermediate players - those are often the best value.
Corners get cut on lathing and hammering, which is fine at this level. Spending a bit more for B20 bronze over B8 will give you better long-term durability and a slightly richer tone, but don't break the bank.
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 13 19" orchestral 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?
B8 bronze is a tin-alloy bronze, cheaper to produce, and generally brighter and less complex. B20 bronze is a higher-quality alloy that offers a warmer, more complex tone and more durability. For a beginner, B20 is preferable, but B8 is acceptable if you're on a tight budget.
How much should I spend on a 19" orchestral cymbal?
Expect to spend anywhere from $80 to $200. Below $80, you're likely getting something very basic that won't sound great. Above $200, you're probably paying for features you don't need as a beginner.
What does 'lathing' mean?
Lathing is the raised edge around the bell of the cymbal. More lathing generally means a brighter, more defined sound, while less lathing produces a warmer, more washy tone. Beginners usually benefit from less lathing.
I'm hearing a lot of 'overtones' - is that bad?
Overtones are frequencies that ring out along with the fundamental tone. Too many uncontrolled overtones can sound harsh and chaotic. A beginner cymbal should have relatively clean fundamentals.
Can I use a 19" cymbal for all orchestral situations?
A 19" is a good all-around size, but you might eventually want to add a slightly larger crash for more dramatic moments. For now, focus on mastering the 19" and developing good technique.
