AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 19" Ride Cymbals for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Zultan 19" Heritage Flat Ride ($269). Zildjian 19" A Series Armand Beautiful Baby Ride Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 11 models across 5 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size19"
This Zultan Heritage Flat Ride is a serious contender for jazz and modern players seeking a warm, controlled sound. The hand-hammering gives it a really nice, responsive feel, and the flat profile keeps things musical without getting overly splashy. It’s a well-made, thoughtfully designed cymbal that offers a lot of character for the price.
Pros
- Warm, complex tone ideal for nuanced jazz playing
- Hand-hammered finish creates organic, responsive feel
- B20 bronze delivers rich, full-bodied sustain
Cons
- Lacks the projection needed for louder, more aggressive styles
- Hammered finish might require more frequent cleaning
60AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$280 · Aug 17$269 now$269€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
The Xist Dry Dark Ride is a seriously well-made cymbal. It’s got that warm, controlled character that's perfect for jazz, funk, and even softer rock applications. If you want a ride that's articulate and cuts through without being overly splashy, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a complex, warm, and controlled wash.
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and responsiveness.
- Dry character cuts through dense mixes without being brittle.
Cons
- The 'dry' nature limits its suitability for brighter, more shimmering styles.
- Smaller bell provides less projection compared to larger ride cymbals.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$332 now$332€295 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 19" Giant Beat Multi-Functional Cymbal
19" Giant Beat Multi Ride · Paiste
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This Paiste Giant Beat Multi Ride is a seriously versatile option, perfect for drummers wanting a full, shimmering ride that works well in both studio and live settings. Its warm bronze tone and layered voicing give it a unique character, sitting nicely between a traditional ride and a crash. It’s a great choice for players looking for a professional-grade ride without venturing into the ultra-expensive realm.
Pros
- CuSn8 bronze provides a warm, complex, and resonant tone.
- The 'multi-layered' voicing offers a shimmering wash without being overly splashy.
- Regular finish balances brilliance with a touch of darkness for versatility.
Cons
- The relatively thin weight might not suit players who prefer heavier rides.
- The 'multi' voicing can occasionally feel slightly unfocused at higher volumes.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$381 now$381€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 19" A Series Armand Beautiful Baby Ride Cymbal
19" A-Series Armand Ride · Zildjian
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This 19in A-Series Armand Ride is a beautifully voiced cymbal, channeling that classic 'Baby Ride' sound. It’s a fantastic choice for players seeking a brighter, more articulate ride – perfect for jazz, lighter rock, or anyone wanting a touch of vintage Zildjian history under their sticks. It provides excellent projection and detail without being overly splashy.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and wash, ideal for nuanced cymbal work.
- The 'Baby Ride' voicing offers a vintage, controlled character.
- Armand Zildjian’s signature adds historical significance and collectibility.
Cons
- The lighter weight might lack sustain for heavier hitters.
- The brighter sound isn't universally appealing; darker tones preferred by some.
86AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$560 now$560€498 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Agop 19" Signature Mel Lewis Crash / Ride
19" Mel Lewis Sign. Crash-Ride · Istanbul Agop
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This Mel Lewis Sign. Crash-Ride is a beautifully voiced cymbal – a real throwback to classic jazz sounds. It’s got a warm, dark character with a surprising amount of stick definition for a cymbal of its type, making it ideal for jazz, blues, and vintage-inspired styles. It's a great option for drummers who want a versatile and expressive cymbal without needing a separate crash and ride.
Pros
- Warm, dark overtones create a beautifully complex wash.
- Excellent stick definition for a cymbal of this character.
- Versatile crash-ride functionality saves space and money.
Cons
- The thinner profile might not suit heavier hitters.
- Its darker sound isn't ideal for brighter, modern genres.
85AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$494 now$494€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Sultan Medium Ride Cymbal
19" Medium Ride Sultan Series · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The Istanbul Mehmet Sultan 19' Medium Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal that delivers a warm, dark, and musical tone. It’s a great choice for drummers seeking a more traditional, controlled sound – perfect for jazz, acoustic, and even softer rock applications where a splashy, bright ride isn't desired.
Pros
- Warm, dark tone blends beautifully across genres.
- Excellent stick definition with surprisingly controlled overtones.
- Hand-hammered construction yields nuanced, complex sound.
Cons
- Can be a bit too dark for brighter, more modern styles.
- The 'dry' nature might lack sustain for some players.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$404 now$404€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Turk Jazz Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets
19" Jazz Ride Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This Istanbul Mehmet Turk Jazz Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal, perfect for jazz, small ensemble, and studio work. The unlathed design and lower bell create a warm, controlled sound with fantastic stick definition – it's a real gem for drummers seeking a vintage vibe without the vintage price tag.
Pros
- Unlathed construction delivers a uniquely dry, controlled wash, avoiding excessive sustain.
- Lower bell profile creates a warmer, more intimate tone ideal for jazz and quieter settings.
- Turk series bronze alloy provides a complex harmonic spectrum with subtle shimmering undertones.
Cons
- Lighter weight might feel 'washy' for drummers preferring a more powerful, cutting ride.
- Limited versatility; not ideal for heavier genres demanding a brighter, more explosive sound.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$404 now$404€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
This Istanbul Mehmet 19in Vintage Crash Ride is a fantastic option for drummers seeking a warm, articulate ride with a crash-like quality. It's ideal for players in smaller spaces or those who prefer a more intimate, nuanced sound—particularly suited for jazz, fusion, or quieter funk grooves.
Pros
- Hand-hammered Turkish bronze delivers a complex, shimmering wash.
- Small bell provides a focused, articulate chime without overpowering.
- Dark, controlled overtones create a refined, musical response.
Cons
- The thin profile may not hold up to aggressive playing styles.
- Limited wash compared to larger, more traditional ride cymbals.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 2.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$415 · Aug 17$404 now$404€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
This Mehmet Legend Sizzle Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal perfect for jazz and lighter styles. The natural finish and hand-hammering give it a really vintage vibe and a responsive feel, but be aware it's not a powerhouse for big, loud gigs.
Pros
- Warm, complex wash ideal for nuanced jazz phrasing.
- Hand-hammered construction delivers a lively, responsive feel.
- Rivets enhance articulation and add a subtle shimmering sizzle.
Cons
- The sizzle can be a bit much for heavier rock or metal styles.
- Natural finish requires more careful maintenance to prevent oxidation.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$404 now$404€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size19"
This Legend Dark Ride Sizzle is a beautifully crafted cymbal perfect for jazz, small ensemble work, and players seeking a warm, controlled wash. The rivets add a unique sizzle without being overly splashy, offering a refined and expressive ride experience for discerning musicians.
Pros
- Warm, dark tone ideal for jazz and quieter styles.
- Hand-hammered construction provides nuanced, complex overtones.
- Rivets enhance stick definition and sizzle response.
Cons
- Smaller bell may lack projection for louder ensemble settings.
- Dark sound isn't suited for bright, cutting metal genres.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$404 now$404€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 11 19" ride cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Medium Ride Cymbal19" Medium Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet62Stable$404€359$404€359Check ↗
19" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 11 models we track, not a sample.
Median $404 — half of all 19" ride cymbals here cost less.
median of 11 models · 19"–19"
How to choose the best 19" ride cymbals
Playability
A beginner needs a cymbal that's forgiving. Too much edge or too much complexity will just lead to frustration. We're looking for something that responds well to different dynamics, even if your technique isn't perfect yet.
Sustain & Wash
A 19" ride should have a decent wash to fill out the kit, but not so much that it becomes a muddy mess. It needs to be able to create a sense of space without overwhelming the other instruments.
Stick Definition
You want to be able to hear the stick clearly, even when playing quietly. This is crucial for developing good timing and articulation. Muffled or overly dark sounds can bury the stick sound.
Bell Tone
The bell is where you get that shimmering, cutting sound. For beginners, a bell that's not too aggressive or piercing is ideal. You'll develop the control to shape the bell tone as you improve.
Budget
Let's be real, you're starting out. We'll focus on cymbals that offer a good balance of quality and affordability, highlighting where corners are cut and what you're getting for your money.
Buying guide
So, you're getting into the world of ride cymbals? Awesome. A 19" ride is a fantastic starting point - not too huge, not too small - offering a good balance of wash and stick definition. But wading through all the options can be overwhelming. Let's break down some solid choices that'll help you develop good technique and get a sound you can actually build on without breaking the bank.
Don't chase the "perfect" cymbal right away. A lot of beginner players get caught up in trying to copy their heroes, but you need something that lets you learn. Entry-level cymbals often use heavier alloys to keep costs down, which means less sustain and a more basic tone.
The good news is, you can get a perfectly usable 19" ride for under $200, but be prepared for a slightly 'thuddy' low-end and less nuanced overtones. Don't be afraid to try before you buy, if possible. Even a quick test at a local music store can save you a lot of heartache.
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 11 19" ride 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 B10 bronze?
B8 is the most common bronze alloy for budget cymbals. It's a blend that's cheaper to produce. B10 is a higher-quality alloy with more complex tonal characteristics, but it's also more expensive. As a beginner, the difference won't be as noticeable.
Should I get a medium, light, or heavy ride?
For a beginner, a medium weight is generally best. It offers a good balance of responsiveness and volume. Lighter rides are more sensitive, which can be tricky to control, while heavier rides require more force to get a sound.
What about pre-played cymbals?
Buying used can be a great way to save money, but be careful. Inspect the cymbal for cracks or keyholing. A little bit of stick marks is normal, but major damage means it won't last.
I'm playing in a rock band - do I need a louder ride?
While you'll want to be heard, a louder ride isn't always the answer. Focus on articulation and dynamics first. A well-played medium-weight ride can cut through a rock mix just fine. You can always add a crash for extra impact.
Can I upgrade the bell later?
Not really. The bell is an integral part of the cymbal's construction. Swapping it out isn't a thing. If you don't like the bell tone, you need to get a whole new cymbal.
