AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Meinl 20" China Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Trash China Cymbal ($558). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 7 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 27, 2026
Top 7
Full detail for the 7 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Trash China Cymbal
20" Byzance Trash China Trad. · Meinl
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This 20-inch cymbal packs a hard-hitting trash sound thanks to its B-20 bronze and six holes. The shorter sustain makes it perfect for tight, explosive accents in small drum setups. It suits players who want classic bite without long ringing notes.
Pros
- B-20 bronze gives strong explosive trash sound
- Six holes create shorter, tighter sustain
- Traditional model offers classic bite
Cons
- Short sustain limits long note duration
- No finish type is listed in details
85AudioFu
Index↓ 5.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$587 · Aug 17$558 now$558€499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This is a heavy, hand hammered cymbal that sounds very dark and dirty. It hits hard and covers a wide range of frequencies. It is perfect for drummers who want a unique, explosive sound without needing extra controls.
Pros
- Hand hammered B20 bronze alloy construction
- Delivers explosive attack on the drum kit
- Dark and dirty sound character for unique tone
Cons
- Lacks electronic pickup systems for recording
- No adjustable tuning mechanisms included
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Meinl 20" Byzance Dual China Cymbal
20" Byzance Dual China · Meinl
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Meinl Dual China is a beautifully crafted cymbal, offering a really unique blend of dry stick response and explosive crashes. It’s perfect for drummers in rock, pop, and fusion needing a focused, articulate China that cuts through a mix without overwhelming it. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and it's a real step up from entry-level options.
Pros
- The B20 bronze delivers a complex, shimmering wash with excellent projection.
- Dual hammering creates a dynamic contrast; dry stick definition meets explosive crashes.
- The brilliant finish enhances clarity and cut, useful for modern and layered sounds.
Cons
- The dry character might not suit players seeking a very trashy, overtly chaotic China sound.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
84AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$603 now$603€539 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Trash China Cymbal
20" Byzance Dual Trash China · Meinl
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Meinl Dual Trash China is a seriously cool, specialized cymbal. It's perfect for players needing a unique, chaotic wash – think progressive metal, experimental jazz, or anyone wanting to add some real texture. The contrasting finishes give it incredible versatility within that niche, but it's not a general-purpose china.
Pros
- B-20 bronze provides complex overtones and a warm, full fundamental.
- Dual finish creates a dynamic contrast, offering both dry trash and bright shimmer.
- Hand-hammering adds a nuanced, organic feel and responsiveness.
Cons
- The thinness means it's not ideal for heavier hitting or very loud environments.
- The unique sound profile might not be universally appealing; very specialized.
83AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$558 now$558€499 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$558 · Aug 17$536 now$536€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$536 now$536€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Vintage Matt Garstka Signature Equilibrium China…
20" Byzance Vintage China · Meinl
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Meinl Byzance Vintage China is a beautifully voiced cymbal, perfect for drummers seeking a nuanced, expressive China sound. Matt Garstka's signature touch really shines through, offering a unique blend of depth and responsiveness—ideal for jazz, world music, and progressive styles where subtle textures are key.
Pros
- Hammering creates uniquely complex, long decay.
- Thin material yields a surprisingly responsive wash.
- Sand-blasted finish delivers a warm, muted brilliance.
Cons
- Price places it in the premium-priced cymbal category.
- Limited versatility; excels in specific musical contexts.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$603 now$603€539 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
20" China Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 23 models we track, not a sample.
median of 23 models · 20"–20"
How to choose the best 20" china cymbals
Tone
Meinl's China Cymbals generally offer a complex wash - not just a simple 'ping.' You get a darker, more controlled overtone series than some of the brighter, more trashy options out there. It's a good balance for cutting through a rock band without being harsh, but it might not be aggressive enough for extreme metal where you want pure chaos.
Bell Response
The bell on Meinl's 20" China Cymbals usually has a surprisingly focused attack, giving you a clear, defined 'chick' sound when you hit it directly. This is a real plus for adding accents and rhythmic complexity - it's not just a washy blob of sound. It's responsive enough for detailed patterns, but still retains that China character.
Trashiness Factor
This is key. Meinl leans towards a more musical 'trash' - a raw, unrefined edge without the clang and unpleasant ringing. It's a controlled chaos, which means it's great for adding grit to your sound without sacrificing clarity. Some players chasing pure, aggressive trashiness might find them a little too refined, though.
Build & Lathe Marks
Meinl's quality control is generally solid. You'll see lathe marks, which is normal for cast bronze cymbals, but they're usually consistent and don't indicate structural weaknesses. They use B20 bronze, which is the standard for professional cymbals - nothing to complain about there.
Versatility
Because they aren't overly aggressive or brittle, Meinl's 20" China Cymbals are surprisingly versatile. They work well in a variety of genres, from rock and funk to blues and even some styles of jazz where you want a subtle exotic flavor. It's a good 'desert island' cymbal if you can only have one.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a 20" China cymbal. It's a crucial color for a lot of genres - rock, metal, funk, even some jazz - but finding one that cuts without being brittle or sounding like a trash can lid can be tricky. Meinl's been making seriously good cymbals for decades, and their 20" China Cymbals consistently deliver a usable, musical response. Let's break down what makes them tick and whether they're right for your kit.
Don't expect a super-cheap Meinl 20" China Cymbal to sound like the higher-end models. The budget options sometimes use thinner bronze and can be prone to cracking if you hit them hard. Invest in a medium-weight model - it'll handle gigging better and retain its character longer.
Also, listen to sound samples online, but remember those are always filtered and compressed - try to hear them in person if possible.
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 7 20" china cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 23 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 Meinl China Cymbals loud enough for a rock band?
Generally, yes. They're not the loudest cymbals on the market, but they have enough projection to cut through a typical rock band mix, especially if you're playing with good dynamics. If you're in a death metal band, you might need something more aggressive.
What's the difference between a China and a Chinese?
Historically, 'Chinese' cymbals were made in the style of traditional Chinese percussion, often thinner and more trashy. 'China' cymbals, like Meinl's, are a more modern, Westernized interpretation with a more controlled and musical response.
Can I use a Meinl 20" China Cymbal in a recording studio?
Absolutely. Their complex tone and controlled trashiness make them great for adding texture and color to recordings. Experiment with mic placement to capture the full spectrum of their sound - close-miking often reveals more of the low-end thump.
Will this cymbal crack easily?
Like any cast bronze cymbal, they can crack if abused. Avoid hitting them with excessive force, especially if you're a heavy hitter. Proper mounting and avoiding temperature extremes also helps.
What's the best way to care for my Meinl China Cymbal?
Regular cleaning with a cymbal cleaner is essential. Don't use harsh chemicals or abrasive pads. A good cymbal bag is also a must to prevent scratches and dents during transport.
