AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 20" China Cymbals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Zildjian 20" FX Oriental China Trash Cymbal ($434). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 23 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Zildjian 20" FX Oriental China Trash Cymbal
20" FX China Trash · Zildjian
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Oriental China Trash is a real statement piece. It's got that aggressive, cutting edge sound perfect for metal, industrial, or anything needing a serious sonic punch. If you're looking for a cymbal that screams, this is it.
Pros
- Bright, trashy sound excels in modern, aggressive genres.
- Quick response allows for precise, controlled crashes and splashes.
- Zildjian’s hammering creates complex overtones and sustain.
Cons
- High-pitched nature can clash with darker, more traditional cymbal setups.
- Relatively thin profile limits its ability to handle heavy playing.
83AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$434 now$434€389 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 20" RUDE Novo China Cymbal
20" Rude Novo China · Paiste
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Rude Novo China is a beast – seriously loud and full of character. It's a great choice for rock, metal, and anything needing a powerful, exotic accent. If you want a cymbal that cuts through a dense mix and adds serious energy, this is a solid option.
Pros
- Paiste’s signature bronze alloy delivers a complex, shimmering overtone series.
- The Novo profile provides a quick response and cutting edge for modern music.
- Robust construction ensures it can handle aggressive playing without cracking.
Cons
- The high volume isn’t ideal for quiet studio settings or sensitive ears.
- The metallic character might not suit all genres, like softer jazz or acoustic music.
82AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$400 now$400€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Traditional China Cymbal
20" Byzance China Traditional · Meinl
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Meinl Byzance China Traditional is a beast – seriously explosive and full of character. It's perfect for rock, metal, and any genre where you need a big, raw, attention-grabbing sound. Just be mindful of its thinness; it's not a cymbal for relentless pounding.
Pros
- Hand-hammered lathing creates complex overtones and a shimmering wash.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a dark, rich tone with excellent projection.
- Traditional profile offers a raw, explosive response perfect for dynamic playing.
Cons
- The explosive nature can be overwhelming for quieter, more subtle musical styles.
- The relatively thin weight makes it potentially susceptible to damage from aggressive playing.
80AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$556 · Aug 17$534 now$534€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Brilliant Trash China Cymbal
20" Byzance China Brilliant · Meinl
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Meinl Byzance China Brilliant is a real powerhouse—it cuts through a mix with a shimmering, explosive sound. It’s perfect for players in rock, metal, or any genre needing a serious splash and wash. The brilliant finish looks stunning, but be prepared to baby it a bit.
Pros
- Exceptional B20 bronze provides rich, complex overtones.
- Hand-hammering creates a uniquely responsive and expressive wash.
- Brilliant finish offers a bright, cutting edge for modern styles.
Cons
- Brilliant finish shows marks easily, requiring diligent care.
- Can be overly bright for softer, more nuanced musical contexts.
80AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$534 now$534€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Z Custom China delivers a powerful, immediate sound perfect for rock, metal, and modern pop. It’s got that explosive crash you want for accents, but the decay isn't muddy – it cuts through the mix really well. If you need a reliable, impactful China without venturing into the extreme trashiness of some models, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Brilliant finish maximizes projection and shimmering overtones.
- Heavy weight provides a substantial feel and controlled, explosive crash.
- Fast attack delivers immediate impact for dramatic accents and fills.
Cons
- The brilliant finish can be prone to finger smudging and requires more upkeep.
- Its focused sound profile might limit versatility for more nuanced, complex cymbal textures.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 3.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$495 · Aug 17$478 now$478€429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Paiste 2002 Novo China is a solid choice for drummers needing a powerful, cutting China. It's built to project, so it’s great for rock, funk, and anything needing a little extra sizzle – just be mindful of the volume. It’s a workhorse cymbal, reliable and ready for a gig.
Pros
- Bright, cutting sound cuts through dense mixes well.
- CuSn8 alloy provides a warm, responsive fundamental tone.
- Traditional bell design offers a distinct, powerful wash.
Cons
- The bright sound may not suit all musical styles or drummers.
- Novo China’s wash can be somewhat unfocused compared to more complex designs.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$411 now$411€369 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size21"
This 21-inch A Series China is a beast – seriously loud and full of character. It’s perfect for rock, metal, and any genre needing a raw, impactful accent. If you’re looking for a China that cuts through a dense mix, this one’s a solid choice.
Pros
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, shimmering wash.
- Ultra-hammering creates a uniquely trashy, explosive sound.
- Inverted involcanoin bell provides a focused, piercing accent.
Cons
- Can be overly aggressive for quieter, more nuanced musical styles.
- The large size makes it less practical for smaller kits or tighter stages.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$478 now$478€429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Paiste 2002 Classic China is a solid choice for drummers seeking a vibrant, exotic sound with good cut. It's a workhorse cymbal that’ll shine in live and studio settings – perfect for rock, funk, and anything needing a little extra sizzle without being overly chaotic.
Pros
- CuSn8 alloy delivers a complex, shimmering wash.
- Traditional bell produces a focused, cutting 'ping'.
- Excellent projection makes it ideal for louder stages.
Cons
- Can be overly bright for some players’ tastes.
- The 2002 series isn’t the most durable Paiste offering.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$400 now$400€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Ufip FX Power China is a real beast – perfect for hard rock, metal, and anything needing serious attitude. It's got a raw, powerful sound and a responsive feel that cuts through a dense mix. If you’re looking for a China that screams without being overly complex, this is a great option.
Pros
- B20 bronze construction delivers a complex, shimmering wash and sustain.
- The aggressive bow flare produces a trashy, explosive sound ideal for heavier genres.
- Ufip’s hammering technique creates a responsive cymbal with excellent dynamic range.
Cons
- Its aggressive sound may not be suitable for quieter, more nuanced musical styles.
- The heavier weight can be fatiguing for players with less strength or stamina.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$429 now$429€385 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 20" RUDE Wild China Cymbal
20" Rude Wild China · Paiste
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Rude Wild China from Paiste is a beast. It's got that raw, untamed energy perfect for heavier rock and metal players who want a distinctive, powerful crash and sizzle. If you're looking for a China that screams attitude and can handle a serious pounding, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Paiste's Signature Dark timbre delivers a unique, earthy resonance.
- Heavy bronze construction ensures durability and a long lifespan.
- The 'Rude' voicing offers controlled explosiveness, avoiding runaway chaos.
Cons
- The dark, full sound isn’t ideal for brighter, more delicate musical styles.
- Heavy weight can be tiring in extended playing sessions, especially for beginners.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$389 now$389€349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 23 20" china cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Turk China Cymbal20" China Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 12
Sabian 20" HHX Zen China Cymbal20" HHX Zen China · Sabian90Stable$634€569$634€569Check ↗
- 13
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Trash China Cymbal20" Byzance Trash China Trad. · Meinl85↓ 5.0%$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 14
Meinl 20" Byzance Extra Dry ChinaMeinl85Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
- 15
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual China Cymbal20" Byzance Dual China · Meinl84Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
- 16
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Trash China Cymbal20" Byzance Dual Trash China · Meinl83Stable$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 17
Masterwork 20" Custom ChinaMasterwork60↓ 4.2%$255€229$255€229Check ↗
- 18
Zultan 20" Rock Beat ChinaZultan58Stable$266€239$266€239Check ↗
- 19
Meinl 20" Byzance Vintage Matt Garstka Signature Equilibrium China…20" Byzance Vintage China · Meinl76Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
- 20
Sabian 20" HHX Dominator Chinese Cymbal20" HHX Dominator Chinese · Sabian71Stable$634€569$634€569Check ↗
- 21
Sabian 20" Paragon ChinaSabian62Stable$601€539$601€539Check ↗
- 22
Sabian 20" HHX China BrilliantSabian62Stable$634€569$634€569Check ↗
- 23
Thomann China Cymbal 50cmThomann58Stable$110€99$110€99Check ↗
20" China Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 23 models we track, not a sample.
Median $512 — half of all 20" china cymbals here cost less.
median of 23 models · 20"–20"
How to choose the best 20" china cymbals
Wash vs. Stick Definition
Intermediate players often struggle with Chinas that are just a blob of wash. You need something that can articulate a rhythm, even if it's still got that chaotic character. We looked for models that offered a balance - enough sustain and spread, but with a discernible attack.
Trashiness & Complexity
There's a spectrum here. Some Chinas are aggressively trashy, others are more refined. The sweet spot for an intermediate player is usually somewhere in the middle - enough complexity to be interesting, but not so wild that it's unplayable or clashes with the kit's overall voice.
Projection & Cut
A China that gets lost in the mix isn't worth much. We prioritized models that could cut through a rock band or a busy acoustic ensemble without being ear-piercingly bright. It's about finding that sweet spot of volume and clarity.
Durability & Lathe Marks
Let's be honest, gigging Chinas take a beating. We considered how well each cymbal held up to regular playing and how the lathing affected the overall sound and response. Rougher lathing tends to add more high-end sizzle, which might not be what you want.
Bell Response & Articulation
The bell on a China is crucial for those quick accents and dynamic swells. We looked for models with responsive bells that didn't feel sluggish or require excessive force to get a sound out of.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're past the basic crash-ride combo and starting to crave some more color, huh? A 20" China cymbal can really add some character - that trashy, swirling shimmer that cuts through a dense mix. But not all Chinas are created equal, especially when you're trying to dial in something usable for gigs and rehearsals without blowing your budget. Let's break down some good options for the intermediate player who's looking to add some serious vibe.
Don't fall for the hype. A lot of cheaper Chinas are just thin bronze with poorly executed lathing - they'll sound brittle and lifeless. Pay attention to the weight; a lighter cymbal will be more trashy, but also more fragile.
Spending a little extra on a reputable brand, even if it's a budget line, will almost always get you a more consistent and durable cymbal with better sonic character.
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 23 20" china 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 a China and a Chinese?
'China' is generally a more modern, trashy sound - often with a wider bow and more complex wash. 'Chinese' cymbals tend to be more traditional-sounding, with a more focused bell and a cleaner overall tone. They're related, but different beasts.
Can I use a 20" China as a crash?
Sure, but it won't behave like a traditional crash. It'll have a longer sustain and a more chaotic character. It can be cool for adding texture, but it's probably not ideal as your main crash.
I'm having trouble controlling the wash. What am I doing wrong?
It's a common issue. Try dampening the cymbal with your hand or a cymbal sock to control the spread. Also, your stick technique plays a huge role - a softer, glancing blow will produce less wash than a hard, direct hit.
Are B8 bronze Chinas any good?
B8 bronze is a decent alloy for the price, but it won't have the same warmth or complexity as B20. Expect a brighter, more brittle tone and potentially shorter lifespan. It's a good starting point if you're on a tight budget.
Should I get a larger or smaller China?
20" is a versatile size for intermediate players. Larger sizes (22"+) will have more wash and projection, but can be harder to control. Smaller sizes (18") can be more focused but might lack the characteristic China vibe.
