AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Istanbul Mehmet 20" Crash Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Dark Crash Cymbal ($423). Istanbul Mehmet 20" IMC Dark Crash Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $301. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 8 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Top 8
Full detail for the 8 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Dark Crash Cymbal
20" Dark Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Istanbul Mehmet Dark Crash is a fantastic all-rounder – it's got that classic Turkish warmth and responsiveness, making it ideal for players who need a reliable crash that cuts through without being overly splashy. It’s a real step up from entry-level cymbals and a great choice for gigging musicians across a wide range of styles.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bronze provides complex overtones and a warm wash
- Traditional profile yields quick response and excellent stick definition
- Regular finish balances brilliance with a controlled, dark timbre
Cons
- The 'dark' sound might lack the shimmer preferred by some modern players
- Hand-hammering can introduce slight inconsistencies in sound across multiple cymbals
55AudioFu
Index↓ 2.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$435 · Aug 17$423 now$423€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This John Robinson crash from Istanbul Mehmet is a serious contender if you're chasing that classic, slightly dark cymbal sound. It’s got a really articulate attack and a surprisingly gentle decay – perfect for players in jazz, blues, or anyone wanting a vintage vibe without being overly splashy. It’s a workhorse, but be aware of its weight.
Pros
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, nuanced vintage character.
- Fast attack and controlled decay offer excellent responsiveness and musicality.
- Natural lathed finish enhances stick definition and provides a warm aesthetic.
Cons
- The darker tonality might be limiting for players needing a bright, cutting crash.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 2.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$479 · Aug 17$468 now$468€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Legend Dry Crash-Ride is a seriously cool cymbal – it’s got that dry, controlled Istanbul sound, but in a manageable 20-inch format. It's a fantastic option for drummers needing a versatile crash that can also handle some ride duties, particularly in genres like modern rock, jazz, and funk where a drier, more focused sound is desired.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a complex, nuanced, and warm tonal palette.
- Hand-hammering creates a uniquely responsive and articulate feel.
- Dry character cuts through dense mixes without excessive wash.
Cons
- The dry nature limits wash and shimmering sustain for some styles.
- The crash-ride designation makes it a compromise, not an excel at either.
55AudioFu
Index↓ 2.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$479 · Aug 17$468 now$468€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Black Bell Crash is a seriously gorgeous cymbal. It's got that warm, enveloping wash that's perfect for jazz, neo-soul, and anything needing a touch of sophistication. If you’re looking for a crash that cuts through the mix without being overly aggressive, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Rich, complex wash with a dark, controlled character
- Untreated bell delivers a focused, musical tone
- Solid B20 bronze construction ensures durability and longevity
Cons
- Can be a bit dark for brighter musical styles
- Relatively heavy for a 20 inch crash
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$464 now$464€415 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Samatya is a really solid crash for players who want something responsive and modern without sacrificing warmth. It's a great choice for pop, rock, and even some funk styles where you need that quick, clean attack. It’s a well-built, premium-priced cymbal that delivers a lot of value for the money.
Pros
- Beautiful, dark wash enhances tonal complexity and visual appeal
- Fast, responsive stick definition ideal for modern playing styles
- B20 bronze alloy delivers warm lows with bright, shimmering overtones
Cons
- Samatya series lacks the wash of more expensive Mehmet lines
- Brilliant finish shows stick marks easily, requiring more upkeep
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$468 now$468€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 20" IMC Dark Crash Cymbal
20" Crash IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
The IMC Natural series from Istanbul Mehmet consistently delivers a fantastic blend of traditional craftsmanship and a modern feel. This 20” crash offers a beautifully warm and complex sound—perfect for players seeking a more organic, nuanced crash without venturing into the super-premium price range. It's a solid choice for rock, jazz, and acoustic settings where a darker, more mellow tone is desired.
Pros
- Warm, complex wash with a focused bell tone.
- IMC hammering creates a unique, organic feel and sound.
- B20 bronze alloy offers a balanced, musical response.
Cons
- IMC hammering can be slightly less responsive than fully lathed cymbals.
- Sound leans towards darker tones; not ideal for bright, cutting styles.
52AudioFu
Index↓ 5.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$318 · Aug 17$301 now$301€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Paper Thin Crash Cymbal
20" Thin Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Istanbul Mehmet 20" Thin Traditional Crash is a beautifully crafted cymbal perfect for jazz, blues, and lighter rock styles where nuance and quick response are key. Its hand-hammered construction gives it a truly unique, vintage voice that’s a welcome departure from the sterile sound of many mass-produced cymbals. If you’re seeking a delicate yet expressive crash, this is a superb choice.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bronze creates a complex, shimmering wash unlike machine-made cymbals.
- Thin profile delivers incredibly fast response and a short, controlled decay.
- Traditional hammering pattern provides a warm, vintage tone with excellent articulation.
Cons
- Thinness makes it less durable than heavier crash cymbals; prone to cracking with aggressive playing.
- The vintage voicing might be too mellow for drummers seeking a modern, cutting crash sound.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$464 now$464€415 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Medium Crash Cymbal
20" Medium Crash Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Istanbul Mehmet 20in Medium Crash Traditional is a seriously good all-rounder. It’s got that classic Turkish sound – warm, responsive, and full of character – that works beautifully for jazz, blues, and even modern rock. If you’re looking for a crash that’s got a bit of soul without being overly splashy, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Hand-hammered bronze delivers complex overtones and warmth.
- Regular finish provides a balanced wash and clear bell articulation.
- Traditional series offers a vintage character appealing to diverse genres.
Cons
- The medium weight might feel slightly heavy for players preferring lighter crashes.
- Traditional finish can be prone to oxidation if not properly maintained.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$464 now$464€415 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
20" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 115 models we track, not a sample.
Median $464 — half of all 20" crash cymbals here cost less.
median of 115 models · 20"–20"
How to choose the best 20" crash cymbals
Heritage & Craftsmanship
Istanbul Mehmet's roots in Turkish cymbal making are deep. They still hammer their cymbals by hand using traditional techniques - that contributes to a complexity of tone you won't find in machine-lathed cymbals. It's not just marketing; you can hear the human touch.
Tone Characteristics
Forget that overly bright, ice-picky top end. Istanbul Mehmet 20" crashes tend to have a warmer, more complex sound, with a pronounced low-midrange that really helps them cut through a dense mix without being harsh. They've got a beautiful wash, but with surprising articulation - you can still define individual strokes.
Series Variation
This is crucial. The Artist Series will be darker and more complex than the Efféctive Series. The Sound Secrets series are often a bit more aggressive. Understand what each series aims for - it's not always perfectly achieved, but it gives you a starting point.
Weight & Action
Generally, Istanbul Mehmet 20" crashes run a bit heavier than some other brands. This contributes to their sustain and power, but it also means they require a slightly more controlled playing technique. You'll need to dial in your stand and stick choice accordingly to avoid a floppy, uncontrolled response.
Hammering & Lathe Marks
You'll see visible hammering marks, and a more raw, unfinished look. This isn't a flaw; it's part of the character. The lathe marks are minimal, preserving the natural sound of the hammering. Some players might prefer a perfectly polished look, but you're sacrificing some of that organic complexity.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Istanbul Mehmet 20" crashes. You're looking for that sweet spot - big enough to cut through a band, but not so massive you're fighting to control it. Istanbul Mehmet's got a reputation for a really unique, almost organic sound, and their 20" crashes often deliver that, but there's a lot of variation within their lines. This isn't your cookie-cutter, mass-produced crash; it's something with a history and a distinct voice.
Don't expect a super-cheap Istanbul Mehmet. They're made with care, and that costs money. Watch out for overly bright or brittle-sounding examples - that can sometimes happen with inconsistencies in hammering.
If you can, try before you buy. Seriously. The subtle nuances in tone are hard to describe, and what sounds 'right' is subjective.
A slightly heavier crash might be exactly what you need to cut through a loud rock band, while a lighter one might be perfect for a jazz gig.
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 8 20" crash cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 115 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 crashes loud enough for rock music?
Absolutely, but it depends on the series. The heavier Artist Series and some Sound Secrets models will easily cut through a rock band, especially if you're hitting them with some authority. The Efféctive series might need a little more encouragement.
How do Istanbul Mehmet crashes compare to Zildjian A crashes?
Zildjian A's are often brighter and more defined, almost 'clean'. Istanbul Mehmet crashes have more complexity and warmth - a less processed feel. If you want something that sounds 'vintage' or more organic, go Mehmet. If you want that crisp, modern attack, stick with Zildjian.
I'm a beginner drummer. Are Istanbul Mehmet crashes too advanced?
Not necessarily! They're a bit more demanding in terms of technique, but learning to control a slightly heavier crash will only improve your playing. Just be prepared to adjust your stick technique and stand settings.
What's the difference between the Artist and Efféctive series?
The Artist Series are generally darker, more complex, and more expensive. The Efféctive Series are more affordable and a bit brighter, designed for a wider range of musical styles. Think of Artist as a premium, Efféctive as a great value.
Can I use a cymbal enhancer with an Istanbul Mehmet crash?
You can, but honestly, it's probably not needed. They already have a good amount of sustain and projection. A cymbal enhancer might muddy the tone and mask some of the unique character - you're better off just playing it right.
