AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 20" Orchestral Cymbals for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Zultan 20" Orchestra medium ($621). Zildjian 20" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 27 models across 7 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 15, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size20"
These Zultan 20” mediums are a real find for orchestral percussionists needing that classic, refined sound. They offer a beautifully controlled wash and complex shimmer that sits perfectly in a large ensemble – a great choice for serious students and seasoned professionals alike.
Pros
- Produces a warm, focused wash ideal for classical and film scores.
- The traditional Turkish hammering creates complex overtones and shimmering highs.
- Zultan’s unique ZB Bronze alloy delivers a distinct, controlled orchestral sound.
Cons
- The medium weight might be a bit heavy for younger or smaller players.
- Sound is relatively specialized; less versatile for rock or pop styles.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$621 now$621€555 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
These Zultan 20in extra heavy orchestral cymbals are a serious upgrade for anyone needing a dark, powerful wash. The traditional Turkish hammering creates a complex, nuanced tone that really fills a concert hall – ideal for professional orchestras or serious students aiming for that authentic orchestral sound.
Pros
- Exceptionally thick profile delivers a dark, resonant, and controlled orchestral wash.
- Turkish production ensures traditional hammering techniques and tonal complexity.
- Extra heavy weight provides excellent sustain and projection for larger halls.
Cons
- The dark, heavy sound may lack brilliance for lighter orchestral passages.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for student or budget musicians.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$621 now$621€555 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
These Zultan 20in Orchestras are seriously well-made – the clarity and sustain are spot-on for a traditional orchestral sound. They’re built heavy for that big, full wash you need, and the included handle is a nice touch for control. They're perfect for professional orchestral percussionists looking for authentic Turkish craftsmanship.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and sustain characteristic of Turkish B20 bronze.
- Heavy weight provides a full, resonant wash ideal for orchestral settings.
- Zultan’s hammering technique creates a complex, shimmering overtone series.
Cons
- The weight makes them physically demanding for extended performances.
- Their focused sound might lack versatility for non-orchestral applications.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$621 now$621€555 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
These Istanbul Agop Xist Orchestral cymbals are built for serious marching and orchestral work. The brilliant finish and Xist hammering deliver a crisp, clear sound that cuts through the ensemble, and the B20 bronze gives them a lovely warmth. If you need reliable, high-quality marching cymbals that offer a professional sound, these are an excellent choice.
Pros
- Brilliant finish provides excellent projection and clarity for marching applications
- Xist hammering creates a focused, controlled sound avoiding excessive overtones
- Turkish B20 bronze offers a warm, complex tonal foundation
Cons
- The brilliant finish can be prone to finger smudging and requires diligent cleaning
- Limited versatility outside of marching and orchestral settings – not ideal for studio work
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$693 now$693€619 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
These Istanbul Agop Xist Brilliant marching cymbals are a fantastic choice for precision and power in marching bands and drum corps. The Xist alloy delivers a clear, penetrating sound that cuts through the ensemble, and the brilliant finish really makes them shine visually. They’re built to handle the demands of marching, but their focused tone might not be ideal for studio recording or broader musical styles.
Pros
- Brilliant finish provides exceptional projection and clarity.
- Hand-hammered lathing enhances sustain and complexity.
- Xist alloy delivers a focused, cutting sound ideal for marching.
Cons
- The brilliant finish shows fingerprints and handling marks easily.
- Limited tonal versatility compared to more complex cymbal profiles.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$693 now$693€619 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
These Zultan Heritage cymbals are a serious contender for any orchestral percussionist seeking a genuine, traditional Turkish sound. The warm, controlled wash and clear stick definition make them perfect for string sections and delicate passages, offering a refined tone that’s a step above more budget-friendly options.
Pros
- Warm, dark wash with excellent stick definition for orchestral passages.
- Hand-hammered Turkish bronze offers a unique, complex overtone series.
- Well-balanced weight contributes to easy control and responsiveness.
Cons
- Limited versatility outside of traditional orchestral settings; not ideal for modern genres.
- The darker sound may lack the shimmering brilliance some players prefer.
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$816 now$816€729 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
These Zildjian A Symphonic Viennese Tones are the real deal – a premium choice for serious orchestral percussionists. The tone is beautifully balanced, offering clarity without sacrificing warmth, and the build quality is superb. They're an investment, but if you're striving for that authentic Viennese orchestral sound, these are tough to beat.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and projection for orchestral passages
- Hammered lathing creates a warm, complex overtone blend
- Zildjian’s A series alloy offers excellent durability and tonal consistency
Cons
- Price point places it firmly in the professional, high-end orchestral market
- Limited versatility outside of primarily orchestral and classical settings
50AudioFu
Index↓ 1.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$879 · Aug 14$870 now$870€777 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
These Zildjian A Symphonic German Tones are the real deal – a direct line to the Wagnerian sound. They’re built for serious orchestral work or any situation demanding a truly commanding, dark crash. If you’re a professional needing that authentic, powerful impact, this pair is worth the investment.
Pros
- Exceptional projection for large orchestral halls and dramatic effect.
- Hand-hammered construction ensures consistent tonal complexity and response.
- The dark, powerful tone is authentic to Wagnerian traditions.
Cons
- The extreme weight (6kg) demands significant physical strength for extended use.
- Limited versatility outside of purely orchestral or theatrical settings.
50AudioFu
Index↓ 1.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$879 · Aug 14$870 now$870€777 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 20" A Series Symphonic French Tone Cymbals (Pair)
20" A Symphonic French Tone · Zildjian
1 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
These Zildjian French Tones are the real deal – beautifully crafted for orchestral work. Their quick response and shimmering sound blend flawlessly with strings and brass, offering a refined and professional sound. They’re perfect for serious orchestral percussionists seeking a classic, nuanced tone.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and shimmering wash, ideal for delicate orchestral passages.
- Quick response and decay provide precise articulation and controlled dynamics.
- The 'A' bronze alloy delivers a bright, focused tone with great projection.
Cons
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most percussionists.
- Limited versatility outside of orchestral settings; not suitable for heavier genres.
48AudioFu
Index↓ 2.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$879 · Aug 14$860 now$860€768 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 20" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal
20" K Constantinople SS MH · Zildjian
18 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size20"
- Weight5.5 kg
These K Constantinople SS MHs are a serious upgrade for any orchestral percussionist seeking a refined, expressive sound. The hand-hammered profile and B20 bronze alloy deliver a gorgeous warmth and shimmer – it’s the real deal for achieving those classic orchestral textures, and the included strap and pad are a thoughtful touch.
Pros
- Exceptional shimmering lows provide a unique orchestral color.
- The medium-heavy weight offers sustain and projection.
- Hand-hammered construction ensures nuanced tonal complexity.
Cons
- The price point positions it as a premium-priced investment.
- Limited versatility outside of primarily orchestral settings.
92AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$1,454 now$1,454€1,299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 27 20" orchestral cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Zildjian 20" A Stadium Medium Marching Cymbals (Pair)20" A' Stadium M · Zildjian · 2 finishes60Stable$935€835$935€835Check ↗
- 12
Zildjian 20" K Symphonic Brilliant Series Light Concert Cymbals (Pair)20" K' Symphonic Light · Zildjian60Stable$1,298€1,159$1,298€1,159Check ↗
- 13
Zildjian 20" Classic Orchestral Sel. MLZildjian · 2 finishes58↓ 1.2%$1,005€898$1,005€898Check ↗
- 14
Zildjian 20" K Constantinople VintageMLZildjian57Stable$1,544€1,379$1,544€1,379Check ↗
- 15
Sabian 20" HHX New Viennese NaturalSabian56↓ 5.0%$1,286€1,149$1,286€1,149Check ↗
- 16
Meinl 20" Symphonic Thin Cymbals (Pair)20" Symphonic Thin · Meinl50↓ 5.1%$1,040€929$1,040€929Check ↗
- 17
Zildjian 20" A Series Z-MAC Multi-Application Cymbals (Pair)20" A' Z-mac M · Zildjian47Stable$928€829$928€829Check ↗
- 18
Istanbul Agop Orchestral 20"Istanbul Agop46Stable$939€839$939€839Check ↗
- 19
Istanbul Agop Super Symphonic 20"Istanbul Agop46Stable$939€839$939€839Check ↗
- 20
Sabian 20" HHX Complex EspressivoSabian46Stable$1,353€1,209$1,353€1,209Check ↗
- 21
Sabian 20" HHX Synergy Brilliant MSabian46Stable$1,353€1,209$1,353€1,209Check ↗
- 22
Sabian 20" Artisan Trad. Sym. MLSabian46Stable$1,880€1,679$1,880€1,679Check ↗
- 23
Meinl 20" Symphonic, MediumMeinl45Stable$1,095€978$1,095€978Check ↗
- 24
Meinl 20" Symphonic HeavyMeinl45Stable$1,096€979$1,096€979Check ↗
- 25
Paiste 20" Symphonic Medium LightPaiste45↓ 7.0%$1,394€1,245$1,394€1,245Check ↗
- 26
Ufip Orchestral Cymbals 20M/VUfip44Stable$917€819$917€819Check ↗
- 27
Ufip Symphonic Cymbals 20M/VUfip44Stable$917€819$917€819Check ↗
20" Orchestral Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 30 models we track, not a sample.
Median $950 — half of all 20" orchestral cymbals here cost less.
median of 30 models · 20"–20"
median of 5 models · 5 kg–5.5 kg
How to choose the best 20" orchestral cymbals
Weight
Lighter weight cymbals are generally more forgiving for beginners. They respond quicker and require less force to get a sound, which is crucial when you're developing your technique. Heavy cymbals can feel sluggish and bury your playing.
Bell Response
A responsive bell is vital for those crisp accents and crash-rolls. Beginners often struggle with bell control, so a bell that isn't overly aggressive or muddy is a big win. You want clarity, not a clang.
Sustain & Decay
Too much sustain can be a nightmare when you're trying to articulate cleanly, while too little leaves you sounding thin. Look for a balanced decay that allows for a clear sound without ringing forever - especially important in a live setting.
Overall Tone
A bright, clear tone is generally easier to control and learn on. Avoid anything too dark or overly complex tonally. That 'fat midrange honk' can wait until you have more chops.
Durability
Orchestral cymbals take a beating. Beginners can be rough on gear, so finding something that can withstand regular use without cracking or warping is essential. Budget models often use thinner bronze, making them more prone to damage.
Buying guide
So, you're getting into orchestral percussion? Awesome! A 20" cymbal is your bread and butter - it's the workhorse for a lot of classical and film scoring gigs. But wading through the options can be overwhelming. This list isn't about the flashiest, most expensive cymbals; it's about finding something that'll let you learn the fundamentals without fighting the instrument itself.
Don't chase the 'pro' sound right away. Seriously. Beginners often overspend on cymbals that are too complex for their skill level.
A good entry-level 20" orchestral cymbal will prioritize playability and responsiveness over extreme tonal complexity. Listen for a clear, balanced tone, and don't be afraid to try before you buy - even if it's just a tap with the stick.
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 30 20" orchestral 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 orchestral and crash cymbals?
Orchestral cymbals are generally thinner and designed for a more nuanced, controlled sound - think subtle swells and precise accents. Crash cymbals are heavier and built for a louder, more explosive sound. For a beginner, stick with orchestral.
Are bronze cymbals the only option?
Pretty much. Most orchestral cymbals are made from bronze alloys, typically B20 bronze. Cheaper cymbals might use a different alloy that results in a duller, less responsive sound. It's a noticeable trade-off.
How much should I spend?
You can find decent 20" orchestral cymbals starting around $100. Spending a little more, say $150-$250, will usually get you a noticeably better-sounding and more durable cymbal.
What about packs vs. individual cymbals?
Packs can seem like a bargain, but the quality often suffers. It's usually better to invest in one or two good individual cymbals than a whole pack of mediocre ones. You can always add more later.
I'm worried about cracking. What can I do?
Proper care is key. Avoid hitting the cymbal directly in the center, use MalletKat soft felt beaters for quieter practice, and store them flat when not in use. Even then, accidents happen - it's part of the deal.
