Best Meinl 20" Crash Cymbals 2026
Alright, let's talk 20" crashes. They're the sweet spot - big enough to cut through a decent-sized room, but not so massive they're a pain to transport or control. If you're looking for a crash that's versatile enough for everything from subtle swells in a jazz gig to a more aggressive rock setting, Meinl's 20" crashes are consistently solid options, and they've got a range to cover almost any style. We're diving into what makes them tick, beyond just the marketing hype.
Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
#1
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Extra Thin Crash
by
Meinl
Art Music
Orchestral
Special Effects
Key Feature:
This 20in Byzance Extra Thin crash is a beauty – truly a top-tier crash for players prioritizing musicality and nuanced expression. It's ideal for jazz, orchestral, and lighter rock styles where a refined and complex wash is desired. Be mindful of its fragility, though; it's not a workhorse for heavy hitters.
PROS
- • Exceptional responsiveness; reacts beautifully to subtle playing dynamics.
- • The hammering creates complex overtones, adding shimmer and depth.
- • Byzance series bronze offers a warm, musical, and controlled sound.
- • Extremely thin profile allows for a quick, explosive initial attack.
CONS
- • The thinness makes it susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing.
- • Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for budget-conscious drummers.
- • May lack the cutting power needed for heavier, more modern genres.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 264366
$517
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Foundry Reserve CR
by
Meinl
Orchestral
Progressive Rock
Cinematic
Key Feature:
This Foundry Reserve CR is a beautifully crafted crash—the hammering really gives it a unique voice. It’s perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, controlled sound with a touch of darkness; ideal for jazz, orchestral, and more nuanced styles where you want a quick decay.
PROS
- • Exceptional warmth and complexity from the B20 bronze alloy
- • Fast response and shortened sustain offer excellent control
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced sonic textures and visual appeal
- • Versatile enough for jazz, orchestral, and modern styles.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
- • Shorter sustain might limit its use in very ambient settings
- • Darker tone might not suit brighter, more aggressive musical genres.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 503766
$658
#3
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl Pure Alloy 20" Medium Crash
by
Meinl
Recording
Cinematic
Special Effects
Key Feature:
This Pure Alloy crash is a seriously solid choice for drummers seeking a reliable, well-rounded cymbal. It's got a lovely warmth and clarity that cuts through a mix without being overly aggressive—perfect for rock, pop, and even some funk applications where you need a touch of vintage character.
PROS
- • The Pure Alloy blend offers a unique, warm yet assertive tone.
- • Meinl’s high-tech hammering creates complex overtones without harshness.
- • Its medium weight provides a controlled, responsive feel for various playing styles.
- • Traditional finish enhances the cymbal's projection and vintage aesthetic.
CONS
- • The medium sustain might not satisfy players needing extended shimmering sounds.
- • Pure Alloy cymbals can be slightly more prone to developing stick marks than brighter finishes.
- • While versatile, it's not a specialist cymbal—lacks extreme sonic colors.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 405824
$373
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Thin Crash
by
Meinl
Progressive Rock
Art Music
Orchestral
Key Feature:
This Meinl Pure Alloy Thin is a fantastic choice for players seeking a darker, more vintage-flavored crash. It’s a surprisingly versatile cymbal, working well in jazz, acoustic, and even softer rock settings where you need a quick, musical response without overpowering the kit. It’s a solid, well-built cymbal that offers a lot of character for its price point.
PROS
- • The Pure Alloy blend offers a uniquely warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Thin profile delivers a remarkably fast attack, ideal for quick patterns.
- • Mechanical hammering creates a nuanced wash and shimmering overtones.
- • Traditional finish enhances the cymbal’s responsiveness and sonic complexity.
CONS
- • Pure Alloy blends aren't as bright or cutting as B8 Pro cymbals.
- • Sustain, while short, might feel limiting for heavier, splashier styles.
- • The traditional finish can be more prone to patina and oxidation.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 581830
$366
#5
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Vintage Crash
by
Meinl
Art Music
Orchestral
Cinematic
Key Feature:
The Byzance Vintage crash is a beautifully crafted cymbal, nailing that classic, vintage tone that's hard to find. It's perfect for jazz, blues, and softer rock styles where you want a really expressive, musical crash. If you’re chasing a warm, organic sound and appreciate a cymbal that responds well to subtle dynamics, this is a serious contender.
PROS
- • Warm, complex wash delivers a truly vintage character.
- • Thin hammering creates a responsive, sensitive playing feel.
- • Sandblasted finish provides a controlled, darker sheen and tone.
- • Large bell produces a clear, musical projection without harshness.
CONS
- • Can be too mellow for aggressive, modern styles like metal.
- • Higher price point makes it a significant investment.
- • Relatively thin profile may require careful handling to avoid damage.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 278578
$571
#6
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Thin Cr.
by
Meinl
Special Effects
Cinematic
Art Music
Key Feature:
This Pure Alloy crash is a real gem if you're chasing a vintage, subtly complex sound. It's fantastic for jazz, folk, or anything where you want a delicate crash without overpowering the kit—think quieter moments and nuanced dynamics. It won’t be your go-to for stadium rock, but it’s a beautifully voiced crash for the right player.
PROS
- • The smoke bronze finish offers a uniquely warm, organic aesthetic.
- • Hammering creates complex overtones and a nuanced response.
- • German craftsmanship ensures exceptional build quality and durability.
- • The thin profile delivers a quick attack and a gentle, airy wash.
CONS
- • The short sustain limits its use in styles needing extended shimmering.
- • The 'washed-out' tone might not suit bright, aggressive musical genres.
- • Pure Alloy blends can sometimes lack the projection of heavier bronze alloys.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 558060
$395
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Medium Crash
by
Meinl
Orchestral
Recording
Special Effects
Key Feature:
This Byzance Medium crash is a serious contender for players seeking a warm, responsive crash with a big sound. It’s a beautifully crafted cymbal that excels in rock, pop, and orchestral settings where a refined, explosive sound is needed – perfect for players wanting a professional-grade crash without going full-on vintage pricing.
PROS
- • Hand-hammered B20 bronze delivers complex overtones and warmth
- • Wide dynamic range responds beautifully to subtle and powerful playing
- • The medium weight provides a controlled, explosive crash without being brittle
- • Meinl’s reworking ensures consistent quality and excellent musicality
CONS
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers
- • The medium weight might feel slightly heavy for some smaller players
- • While versatile, it leans towards warmer styles; lacks extreme brightness
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 111376
$549
#8
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Vint. Trash Crash
by
Meinl
Cinematic
Recording
Special Effects
Key Feature:
This Meinl Trash Crash is a seriously cool, characterful cymbal. It’s perfect for players who want to add unique accents and edgy textures to their kit – think alternative rock, industrial, or anything needing a bit of sonic grit. It’s not your go-to crash, but it’s a killer specialty cymbal.
PROS
- • Unique cratered surface creates complex, trashy overtones.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a dark, warm, yet cutting character.
- • Excellent responsiveness for nuanced, controlled accents and effects.
- • Meinl's Byzance Vintage series offers a beautifully aged aesthetic.
CONS
- • The 'trash' sound isn't universally appealing; lacks traditional crash shimmer.
- • Can be overly aggressive for very subtle or delicate musical contexts.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 308281
$571
#9
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Vint. Sand Thin C.
by
Meinl
Orchestral
Progressive Rock
Special Effects
Key Feature:
This Sand Thin is a Benny Greb signature for a reason – it's incredibly responsive and has a uniquely dark, almost smoky sound. It’s perfect for drummers seeking a vintage vibe and a quick, articulate crash without excessive sustain; think modern jazz, fusion, or even indie rock where you want a crash that cuts through without dominating.
PROS
- • Warm, dark tone with a surprisingly complex shimmer.
- • The sandblasted finish provides a beautifully raw, vintage aesthetic.
- • Large hammer blows create a quick, responsive feel ideal for dynamic playing.
- • B-20 bronze alloy delivers a complex harmonic richness.
CONS
- • Sustain is short, limiting its use in longer, washy cymbal passages.
- • The white noise character can become overwhelming in very dry, intimate settings.
- • Sandblasted finish can be prone to minor chipping with heavy use.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 533365
$548
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Heavy H. Crash
by
Meinl
Orchestral
Art Music
Recording
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Heavy H. Crash is a real statement piece. It’s got a powerful, dark crash with a raw, hammered edge that cuts through the mix. Perfect for rock, metal, and heavier genres where you need a serious crash presence.
PROS
- • Rich, dark fundamental tone with aggressive overtones
- • Hand hammering creates complex, nuanced sonic textures
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers excellent sustain and projection
- • Heavy weight provides a powerful, cutting crash response
CONS
- • Can be overwhelming for quieter musical settings
- • The brilliant finish shows fingerprints and handling marks easily
- • Price point positions it as a premium investment
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 406177
$538
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Polyphonic Crash
by
Meinl
Cinematic
Orchestral
Special Effects
Key Feature:
This Meinl Polyphonic is a beautifully voiced crash, offering a darker, more complex sound than many standard crashes. It’s fantastic for players in jazz, orchestral, or more nuanced contemporary genres who want a quick response and shimmering, swirling textures—it really adds something special to the mix.
PROS
- • B-20 bronze delivers complex overtones and shimmering wash.
- • Thin edges provide exceptionally fast response and explosive attack.
- • The unlathed bell creates a darker, more controlled fundamental tone.
- • Polyphonic voicing adds a unique, swirling texture to the crash.
CONS
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category for many drummers.
- • Sustain, while short, might not suit players needing long, drawn-out crashes.
- • The darker tone isn't ideal for brighter, more modern musical styles.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 533355
$538
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Crash
by
Meinl
Orchestral
Special Effects
Recording
Key Feature:
This Pure Alloy Custom Crash is a real gem for players seeking a warm, controlled crash with a sophisticated sound. It’s a fantastic choice for jazz, orchestral, or any style where nuance and responsiveness are key – it really shines in more subtle musical settings.
PROS
- • The Pure Alloy blend delivers a uniquely warm, complex overtone series.
- • German manufacturing ensures exceptional consistency and durability.
- • Smoke Bronze finish minimizes stickiness and offers a refined aesthetic.
- • Short sustain makes it incredibly responsive and controllable in dynamic passages.
CONS
- • The tonal character is less versatile than a more complex alloy cymbal.
- • The price point places it firmly in the premium-priced category.
- • May lack the explosive power needed for heavier, more aggressive styles.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 483021
$395
#13
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Cr.
by
Meinl
Special Effects
Recording
Art Music
Key Feature:
This Meinl crash is a real character piece – the Pure Alloy blend gives it a warmth you don’t often hear in hammered crashes. It's fantastic for players who want a quick, articulate crash with a touch of vintage vibe, especially those in rock, funk, or soul settings where a shorter sustain is desirable.
PROS
- • The Pure Alloy blend offers a unique, warm tonal character.
- • Heavy hammering creates complex overtones and a lively response.
- • Medium-thin weight provides a fast attack and quick decay.
- • Traditional finish retains a natural, unlacquered aesthetic and patina.
CONS
- • The fast decay limits its suitability for extended washes or shimmering sounds.
- • Pure Alloy's inherent brightness can be challenging to tame in certain mixes.
- • Hammered finish can be more prone to developing stick marks and oxidation.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 581406
$406
#14
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Jazz M. Thin Crash
by
Meinl
Cinematic
Recording
Progressive Rock
Key Feature:
This Meinl Jazz M. Thin is a beautifully voiced crash, perfect for jazz, small ensemble work, or any situation where you need a sophisticated, articulate crash. The fast decay and warm tone cut through a mix without being overpowering – a real gem for the discerning player.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and nuanced tonal character.
- • Thin profile and hammering create a quick, responsive decay ideal for jazz.
- • Brilliant finish enhances clarity and projection without being overly bright.
- • Meinl’s Byzance Jazz series is renowned for exceptional craftsmanship and consistency.
CONS
- • The thinness makes it somewhat delicate; not ideal for aggressive playing.
- • Its focused sound isn't as versatile for heavier genres like rock or metal.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 350251
$527
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Trash Crash
by
Meinl
Progressive Rock
Art Music
Recording
Key Feature:
This Byzance Dual Trash is a seriously cool cymbal – the contrasting finishes give it a unique trashy character while maintaining clarity. It's ideal for drummers in funk, hip-hop, and electronic music who need that short, cutting crash sound, and it'll cut through a dense mix beautifully. Expect a lot of character and vibe, but be mindful of its delicate nature.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers complex, shimmering overtones.
- • Dual finish creates unique trashy, yet articulate response.
- • Thin profile ensures rapid decay, perfect for modern grooves.
- • Hand-hammering adds character and nuanced sonic textures.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Limited versatility; excels in specific genres, less so in others.
- • Thinness means it's potentially fragile and requires careful handling.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 483034
$549
How to Choose the Best 20" Crash Cymbals
1
Sound Signature
Meinl's sonic profile tends towards a darker, more complex tone than, say, Zildjian. You'll hear a wider range of overtones, a less immediate "wash," and often a more pronounced "stick articulation" - that crisp, defined sound when the stick hits the cymbal. This isn't necessarily 'better,' but it's a distinct character.
2
Manufacturing Philosophy
Meinl's emphasis on hammering and lathing contributes significantly to their complex overtone structure. They often use heavier hammering than some competitors, which helps shape the sound and reduce unwanted ringing. This gives them a more mature, worked-over feel.
3
Material Choices
Meinl utilizes a variety of alloys, from B12 bronze (their flagship) to B8 bronze (more affordable). B12 offers a richer, more nuanced sound with more harmonic content, but B8 still delivers a respectable performance for the price. The bronze alloy heavily influences the overall tone - expect more warmth and complexity from B12.
4
Dynamic Range
Meinl 20" crashes generally respond well to a wide range of dynamics. You can get a whisper-quiet shimmer or a full-on explosive crash, and they retain their character throughout the dynamic spectrum. This is critical for versatility across different musical styles.
5
Durability & Lathe Work
Meinl's lathe work is consistently clean and even. This contributes to a more controlled, musical decay and reduces unwanted "rattling" or "pinging". They hold up well to regular gigging, though heavier hitters will want to consider thicker models or B12 alloys for increased longevity.
Buying Guide
Don't get caught up in the hype - listen to sound samples, ideally in person. The B8 series are a great starting point for budget-conscious players, but be aware that the lower price point means a slightly less complex sound and potentially a shorter lifespan under heavy use. If you're serious about your sound, the B12 series is worth the investment; the tonal richness is noticeable and the action will feel more responsive. Pay attention to the weight - heavier crashes will have more power, while lighter ones are more responsive for quieter playing.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent years playing Meinl cymbals in countless situations - smoky clubs, packed festivals, sterile studios, and countless band rehearsals. Our evaluations involve direct A/B comparisons against other leading brands, and we're judging them on how they feel and sound in a real band context, not just in a vacuum.
Frequently Asked Questions
B12 is their premium bronze, offering a richer, more complex tone and greater responsiveness. B8 is more affordable but has a slightly thinner sound and less harmonic content. Think of it as a noticeable upgrade in tonal quality, but at a higher price.
It depends on the model. Their heavier crashes, particularly in the Byzance and Tradition series, can easily cut through a loud mix. Lighter models are better suited for quieter styles or when you want a more controlled crash.
Proper care is key. Avoid hitting the cymbal directly in the bell, use a cymbal bag for transport, and regularly clean it. Excessive dryness or humidity can also contribute to cracking, so store them appropriately.
The Meinl Classic Custom Brilliant Finish 20" Crash is a solid, reliable choice. It's affordable, sounds good, and is durable enough to withstand some abuse while you're developing your technique.
Meinl's generally have a more controlled sustain than some brands - they don't ring forever. This is intentional, as it allows for more precise cymbal control and reduces unwanted wash in the mix. It's a trade-off for a more defined and articulate crash.
