AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Meinl 20" Crash Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Meinl 20" Byzance Traditional Extra Thin Hammered Crash ($535). Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Crash gives you the most for the money at $285. Meinl 20" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 22 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Meinl 20" Byzance Traditional Extra Thin Hammered Crash
20" Byzance Jazz M. Thin Crash · Meinl
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
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.
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.
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$535 now$535€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Traditional Extra Thin Hammered Crash
20" Byzance Jazz Thin Crash · Meinl
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Meinl Byzance Jazz Thin is a real gem for players seeking a vintage vibe. It's incredibly responsive and produces a beautifully warm, shimmering crash that’s perfect for jazz, small ensembles, or anyone wanting a more nuanced crash sound. Be mindful of its thinness – it’s not built for thrashing, but for sensitive expression.
Pros
- Exceptional responsiveness thanks to thin profile and hammering
- Warm, vintage-inspired tone perfect for jazz and lighter styles
- B20 bronze alloy delivers complex overtones and shimmering sustain
Cons
- Thinness makes it susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$569 now$569€509 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Traditional Extra Thin Hammered Crash
20" Byzance Extra Thin Crash · Meinl
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
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.
Cons
- The thinness makes it susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing.
- Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for budget-conscious drummers.
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$580 now$580€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Traditional Extra Thin Hammered Crash
20" Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash · Meinl
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Meinl Byzance Extra Dry T. Crash is a beautifully crafted cymbal, offering a really unique sonic palette. It's perfect for players in jazz, fusion, or anyone seeking a sophisticated, nuanced crash that cuts through without being overpowering – think Gil Evans or a modern session player.
Pros
- Exceptional responsiveness for nuanced, ghost note-friendly playing.
- The 'Extra Dry' lathing creates a uniquely complex, shimmering wash.
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, dark core with surprising projection.
Cons
- Limited versatility; not ideal for louder, heavier musical styles.
- The thinness makes it susceptible to damage from aggressive playing.
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$598 now$598€535 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Traditional Polyphonic Crash Cymbal
20" Byzance Polyphonic Crash · Meinl
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
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.
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.
76AudioFu
Index↓ 5.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$587 · Aug 17$557 now$557€499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Classics Custom Dark crash from Meinl is a seriously solid choice for drummers needing a full, dark crash that cuts through a loud mix. It’s built with B12 bronze, giving it a really nice complexity and sustain. It's ideal for rock, metal, and heavier styles where you want a powerful, assertive crash without being overly bright.
Pros
- B12 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex, and musical tone.
- Natural finish enhances sonic clarity and responsiveness.
- Excellent projection and volume for louder musical settings.
Cons
- Darker sound may not suit brighter, more contemporary music styles.
- The natural finish is susceptible to oxidation and requires regular care.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$285 now$285€255 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Brilliant Medium Crash
20" Byzance Medium Crash · Meinl
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
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
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers
- The medium weight might feel slightly heavy for some smaller players
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$557 now$557€499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal
20" Pure Alloy Thin Crash · Meinl
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
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.
Cons
- Pure Alloy blends aren't as bright or cutting as B8 Pro cymbals.
- Sustain, while short, might feel limiting for heavier, splashier styles.
72AudioFu
Index↓ 2.9%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$390 · Aug 17$379 now$379€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal
20" Byzance Foundry Reserve CR · Meinl
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
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
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
- Shorter sustain might limit its use in very ambient settings
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$703 now$703€629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dual Crash Cymbal
20" Classics Custom Dual Crash · Meinl
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
The Classics Custom Dual Crash is a seriously versatile cymbal. It’s got a warm core with a really quick, explosive response that cuts through a mix – perfect for rock, metal, or anything needing some serious energy. If you want a crash that's more than just 'splash,' this is a great choice.
Pros
- B-12 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and musical wash.
- Dual hammering creates a unique, responsive, and explosive sound.
- Dark/brilliant finish offers a balanced aesthetic and tonal complexity.
Cons
- The 'explosive response' might be overwhelming for very subtle playing styles.
- B-12 bronze isn't as bright or cutting as some other bronze alloys.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$301 now$301€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 22 20" crash cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Cr. · Meinl71Stable$409€366$409€366Check ↗
- 12
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Custom MH Crash · Meinl71Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 13
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Custom Crash · Meinl71Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 14
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Custom Thin Cr. · Meinl71Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 15
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Trash China Cymbal20" Byzance Dual Trash Crash · Meinl70Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
- 16
Meinl 20" Byzance Dark CrashMeinl70Stable$609€545$609€545Check ↗
- 17
Meinl 20" Byzance Vintage Pure Crash Cymbal20" Byzance Vintage Pure Crash · Meinl68Stable$580€519$580€519Check ↗
- 18
Meinl 20" Byzance Vintage CrashMeinl68Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 19
Meinl Pure Alloy 20" Medium CrashMeinl58↓ 2.8%$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 20
Meinl 20" Byzance Heavy H. CrashMeinl56Stable$580€519$580€519Check ↗
- 21
Meinl 20" Byzance Vint. Sand Thin C.Meinl56Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 22
Meinl 20" Byzance Vint. Trash CrashMeinl56Stable$609€545$609€545Check ↗
20" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 115 models we track, not a sample.
Median $557 — half of all 20" crash cymbals here cost less.
median of 115 models · 20"–20"
How to choose the best 20" crash cymbals
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 22 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
What's the difference between Meinl's B8 and B12 bronze?
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.
Are Meinl crashes loud enough for a rock band?
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.
How do I prevent my Meinl crash from cracking?
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.
Which Meinl 20" crash is best for a beginner?
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.
Do Meinl crashes have a long sustain?
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.
