AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Istanbul Mehmet 19" Ride Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Istanbul Mehmet 19" Sultan Medium Ride Cymbal ($404). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 6 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 6
Full detail for the 6 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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 ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 19" Traditional Series Medium Ride Cymbal
19" Medium Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
This Istanbul Mehmet 19 Medium Ride is a real gem – a beautifully crafted cymbal with a vintage vibe. It’s fantastic for jazz, blues, and classic rock players who want a warm, expressive ride with a shimmering wash and responsive stick definition. The traditional construction really shines through.
Pros
- Hand-hammered lathing creates complex overtones and shimmering wash
- B20 bronze alloy delivers warm, dark, and musical tones
- Well-balanced stick response for clear articulation and controlled dynamics
Cons
- The medium weight might feel slightly heavy for some players
- Lathing can be susceptible to minor imperfections and inconsistencies
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$404 now$404€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
19" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 11 models we track, not a sample.
median of 11 models · 19"–19"
How to choose the best 19" ride cymbals
Hand Hammering & Profile
This isn't machine-stamped. The hand-hammering is evident - you can feel it in the action and hear it in the wash. Istanbul Mehmet's hammering leaves a distinctive profile, often with those signature 'dimples' that contribute to the complex overtones and responsiveness. It's a big part of what separates them from mass-produced cymbals.
B20 Bronze Alloy
Mehmet almost exclusively uses B20 bronze, which is generally considered the gold standard. This alloy gives you a warmer, more complex tone than B8, with more harmonic content. It's more forgiving too - you get more nuance and expression without that harsh, brittle edge you can find with some other alloys.
Sonic Character
These rides aren't just "bright" or "dark." They have a distinct complexity. You'll find a really nice, controlled wash that isn't overwhelming, alongside a bell that has a clear, defined ping - not that dull thud you get with cheaper cymbals. The stick definition is crisp and articulate, without being overly dry or brittle.
Durability & Lathe Work
Istanbul Mehmet's cymbals are built to gig. They're not as fragile as some of the thinner, more fragile boutique options. The lathe work is generally clean and consistent, contributing to the overall sonic character - the unlathed areas really influence the sustain and wash.
Variety of Models
Mehmet offers a range of 19" rides - the Efféctive, the Tradition, the MySound, and more. Each has its own voicing and character. This lets you dial in the exact sound you want, whether you're after a darker, vintage vibe or something more modern and cutting.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're after a 19" ride? Smart move - it's the sweet spot for a lot of genres. If you're looking for something that's got that Turkish heritage vibe, but isn't just another cookie-cutter cymbal, Istanbul Mehmet's 19" rides deserve a serious listen. They're not the cheapest, but they offer a complexity you just don't find everywhere, especially when you want something that cuts through a rock mix but can still whisper in a jazz setting.
Don't expect a budget-buster. Istanbul Mehmet cymbals are an investment, and you're paying for that hand-hammered quality and the unique Turkish sound. Listen to audio samples - they're not all created equal, and the different lines have very different personalities.
If you're just starting out, the Efféctive line is a great entry point; if you're a seasoned pro looking for something special, the Tradition line is worth the splurge.
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 6 19" ride cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 11 in the category). 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 Istanbul Mehmet cymbals loud enough for a rock band?
Absolutely. While they're not the loudest cymbals out there, the clarity and articulation mean they cut through a mix really well. The bell has plenty of projection, and the overall sustain gives them plenty of presence.
How do Istanbul Mehmet cymbals compare to Zildjian?
They have a different sonic signature. Zildjian often leans towards a brighter, more immediate sound, while Mehmet tends to be warmer, more complex, and with more harmonic content. It's a matter of preference, but Mehmet offers a more nuanced and 'organic' feel.
What's the difference between the Efféctive and Tradition lines?
The Efféctive line is a more modern, versatile option, often slightly thinner and brighter. The Tradition line is a more vintage-inspired sound - darker, more complex, and with a more prominent wash. Think of Efféctive as a workhorse, Tradition as a studio secret weapon.
Will these cymbals oxidize?
Not really. Regular cleaning with a cymbal cleaner will keep them in good shape. Avoid abrasive cleaners, and be careful not to over-tighten the cymbal sleeve on your stands.
