AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 20" Ride Cymbals for Intermediate 2026

The top pick is Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal ($426). Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $246. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 140 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 18, 2026

140models in this chart
11brands
$426median price
11price drops since Aug

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All 20" Ride Cymbals Showing: For Intermediate · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian

    85 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This A Series Medium Ride is a solid choice for drummers needing a dependable, all-purpose cymbal. It's got a clean, bright sound that cuts through a mix, and the build quality is excellent for the price. Perfect for gigging musicians or students looking for a versatile and reliable ride without the premium price tag.

    Pros

    • Bright, clear stick definition for articulate playing.
    • Zildjian's A series alloy delivers a balanced, musical tone.
    • Well-latted construction ensures consistent wash and stick response.

    Cons

    • Lacks the complex overtones of higher-end Zildjian rides.
    • The medium weight might feel heavy for smaller players.
    81AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$426 now
    $426€379 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" A-Custom Ride · Zildjian

    85 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Zildjian A-Custom 20' ride is a fantastic choice for players seeking a clear, articulate ride cymbal with plenty of volume. It's especially well-suited for jazz, fusion, and contemporary styles where precise stick definition and a focused sound are crucial – not ideal if you’re looking for a super-washy, vintage vibe.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and stick definition for precise playing.
    • Large volume reserve allows for dynamic range in any setting.
    • Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.

    Cons

    • Can be overly bright for drummers preferring darker, washier sounds.
    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
    81AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$472 now
    $472€419 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" S Series Medium Ride · Zildjian

    85 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Zildjian S Series Medium Ride is a solid, dependable choice for drummers seeking a bright, articulate sound without the premium price tag. It's a workhorse ride – excellent for gigging musicians and students alike who need a reliable, responsive cymbal that cuts through a mix.

    Pros

    • B12 bronze offers a balanced, responsive feel and tone.
    • Medium weight provides excellent stick definition and control.
    • Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.

    Cons

    • The sound might be too bright for some heavier musical genres.
    • Lacks the complexity and sustain of higher-end cymbals.
    78AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price36
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    ↑ 4.8%since Aug 17
    $235 · Aug 17$246 now
    $246€219 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Sabian 20" B8X Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" B8X Ride · Sabian

    34 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Sabian B8X 20' Ride is a solid, reliable option for drummers seeking a warm, expressive ride without the premium price tag. It's fantastic for beginner to intermediate players, or anyone needing a dependable workhorse cymbal for a variety of genres like rock, pop, and lighter jazz. The hammering gives it a surprisingly nuanced character, especially considering the alloy.

    Pros

    • B8 bronze offers a surprisingly warm, complex tone for the price.
    • Hammered bell provides a clear, articulate wash without being overly splashy.
    • Medium weight balances sustain and stick definition well.

    Cons

    • B8 bronze isn't as bright or shimmering as higher-end alloys.
    • Hammering, while intentional, can introduce slight inconsistencies in tone.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand80
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker70
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$269 now
    $269€239 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride

    Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This Classics Custom Dark Ride is a really solid all-rounder. The B12 bronze gives it a lovely warmth and complexity without getting muddy, and it responds well to a variety of playing styles. It's a great choice for players seeking a balanced, versatile ride that won’t overpower a kit – especially good for jazz, funk, and modern rock.

    Pros

    • B12 bronze offers a warm, complex sonic character.
    • Excellent stick definition for clean, articulate playing.
    • Full overtone spectrum provides a dynamic, responsive feel.

    Cons

    • Can be a bit dark for brighter, more cutting styles.
    • The natural finish is prone to finger smudging and oxidation.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$287 now
    $287€255 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride

    20" Classics Custom Med. Ride · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This Classics Custom ride is a workhorse – a really solid choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable, all-around ride. It's got a clear stick attack and a good, full sound that cuts through a mix without being overly splashy. Ideal for rock, pop, and funk players who want a dependable and versatile ride cymbal.

    Pros

    • Excellent stick definition thanks to the Brilliant finish.
    • Balanced wash and stick sound provide versatile musicality.
    • Defined bell offers a clear, cutting accent tone.

    Cons

    • The medium weight might feel a bit heavy for some drummers.
    • The 'resolute' character can be a bit dry for those seeking a washier ride.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$291 now
    $291€259 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Sabian 20" Stratus Ride Cymbal

    20" Stratus Ride · Sabian

    31 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Stratus is a seriously usable ride – a great all-rounder for gigging drummers or studio work. It’s got a lovely warmth and a surprisingly defined bell, and it’s responsive enough to double as a crash in a pinch. Perfect for players wanting a versatile ride without a super-expensive price tag.

    Pros

    • Warm, musical fundamental avoids harshness common in thinner rides.
    • Hammered profile provides complex overtones and shimmering wash.
    • Clear, assertive bell cuts through dense mixes effectively.

    Cons

    • The lighter weight limits sustain compared to heavier, premium rides.
    • While versatile, it’s not a specialist – lacks extreme crash or bell focus.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker70
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$449 now
    $449€399 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride

    20" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This Classics Custom Pow. Ride is a beast for rock, hard rock, and metal drummers needing a defined, cutting ride sound. It's got a real punch and presence without getting muddy, though it's not the most versatile choice for quieter genres. A solid, reliable option for players wanting a powerful ride without a premium price tag.

    Pros

    • Bright, cutting wash ideal for powerful rock and metal grooves
    • B20 bronze alloy delivers a focused, assertive character
    • Brilliant finish enhances shimmer and projection onstage

    Cons

    • Can be overly bright for softer, more nuanced musical styles
    • Lacks the complex overtones of higher-end ride cymbals
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$262 now
    $262€233 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Zildjian 20" K Series Crash / Ride Cymbal

    20" A-Series Crash/Ride · Zildjian

    23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The A-Series 20” Crash/Ride is a solid, well-built option for drummers needing a versatile cymbal. It’s bright and articulate, perfect for rock, pop, and modern styles where clarity and cut are important. It’s a great entry point into the A-Series line and offers a lot of value for the money.

    Pros

    • Bright, shimmering wash with a focused, clear stick definition
    • A2 bronze alloy provides a responsive, modern sound
    • Versatile enough for both crash and ride duties in many genres

    Cons

    • Lacks the complex overtones of higher-end Zildjian models
    • Might be too bright for drummers preferring a darker, vintage tone
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand71
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$426 now
    $426€379 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Zildjian 20" A Series Ping Ride Cymbal 1986 - 2012

    20" A-Series Ping Ride · Zildjian

    23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This cymbal gives you a sharp, clear ping that cuts through a band. Made from B20 bronze, it stays bright and expressive. It is a solid choice for players who want that classic A-Series sound without the heavy price tag.

    Pros

    • Clear high-end definition for cutting through mix
    • Classic bright and expressive ping sound
    • A-Series B20 bronze construction

    Cons

    • Lack of specific weight data listed
    • No bell size information provided
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand71
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$449 now
    $449€399 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 140 20" ride cymbals

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal20" Classics Custom Dual Ride · Meinl
    Index 67Stable
    67
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  2. 12
    Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Ride20" Xist Ride Natural · Istanbul Agop
    Index 65Stable
    65
    Stable$354€315
    $354€315Check ↗
  3. 13
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Crash / Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride · Meinl
    Index 64↓ 2.6%
    64
    ↓ 2.6%$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  4. 14
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered C-R · Meinl
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  5. 15
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Ride · Paiste
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  6. 16
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  7. 17
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Custom Ride · Meinl
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  8. 18
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  9. 19
    Zildjian 20" L80 Low Volume Ride Cymbal20" Low Volume Ride · Zildjian
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  10. 20
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" IMC Bronze Ride Cymbal20" Ride IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$321€285
    $321€285Check ↗
  11. 21
    Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Brilliant Ride20" Xist Ride Brilliant · Istanbul Agop
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$359€319
    $359€319Check ↗
  12. 22
    Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash CymbalPST7 20" Ride · Paiste · 3 finishes
    Index 74Stable
    74
    Stable$201€179
    $201€179Check ↗
  13. 23
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride20" Classics Extreme Ride · Meinl
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  14. 24
    Sabian 20" B8X Rock Ride Cymbal20" XSR Rock Ride · Sabian
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  15. 25
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$242€215
    $242€215Check ↗
  16. 26
    Paiste 20" PST 8 Reflector Medium Ride Cymbal20" PST8 Reflector Rock Ride · Paiste · 2 finishes
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$213€189
    $213€189Check ↗
  17. 27
    Paiste 20" RUDE Power Ride Cymbal20" Rude Power Ride · Paiste
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$415€369
    $415€369Check ↗
  18. 28
    Paiste 2002 Classic 20" Heavy RidePaiste
    Index 56↓ 2.7%
    56
    ↓ 2.7%$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  19. 29
    Zultan 20" Alaris RideZultan
    Index 55↓ 4.0%
    55
    ↓ 4.0%$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  20. 30
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Original Ride Cymbal20" Original Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  21. 31
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Medium Ride Cymbal20" Medium Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  22. 32
    Zultan 20" Aeon RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  23. 33
    Meinl 20" Class. Cust. Dark Heavy RiMeinl
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  24. 34
    Zultan 20" Q RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  25. 35
    Zultan 20" Alaris light RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  26. 36
    Zultan 20" Ride 25Zultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  27. 37
    Zultan 20" Dune RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  28. 38
    Zultan 20" Caz RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  29. 39
    Zultan 20" Aeon Light RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  30. 40
    Zultan 20" Heritage Flat RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  31. 41
    Zultan 20" Z-Series RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  32. 42
    Zultan 20" Mellow RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$335€298
    $335€298Check ↗
  33. 43
    Zultan 20" Heritage RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$354€315
    $354€315Check ↗
  34. 44
    Meinl Pure Alloy 20" Medium RideMeinl
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  35. 45
    Paiste 2002 Classic 20" Power RidePaiste
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  36. 46
    Paiste 2002 Classic 20" RidePaiste
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$415€369
    $415€369Check ↗
  37. 47
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" Nostalgia 50s Ride Cymbal20" Nostalgia 50's Ride · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 54↓ 2.3%
    54
    ↓ 2.3%$472€419
    $472€419Check ↗
  38. 48
    Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Power RideIstanbul Agop
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$354€315
    $354€315Check ↗
  39. 49
    Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Dry Dark Flat RideIstanbul Agop
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$354€315
    $354€315Check ↗
  40. 50
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" Origin Dark Ride Cymbal20" Ride Origin Dark Series · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$438€389
    $438€389Check ↗

20" Ride Cymbals by the numbers

Measured across all 146 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $426 — half of all 20" ride cymbals here cost less.

3
13
49
79
2
<$100$100–200$200–400$400–750$750+
Size20"

median of 146 models · 20"–20"

How to choose the best 20" ride cymbals

Wash

For an intermediate player, too much wash can be overwhelming. We looked for rides with a defined stick sound and a manageable wash - enough to add complexity, but not so much it obscures your articulation. Too much wash and you'll just be adding noise.

Bell Definition

A crisp, clear bell is crucial for those bell patterns you're starting to learn. Muffled bells are a nightmare for developing coordination, so we prioritized rides with a focused, articulate bell tone.

Sustain & Decay

You want sustain, sure, but not endless ringing. The right decay lets you layer rhythms and create dynamics without muddying the mix. We looked for a good balance - enough sustain to be musical, but not so much it becomes a liability.

Stick Feel & Playability

This is huge. A ride that feels stiff or unresponsive will kill your progress. We prioritized rides with a comfortable action and a responsive feel that encourages exploration and nuanced playing.

Overall Tone Character

Are you after a dark, jazzy vibe, or something brighter to cut through a rock band?

Buying guide

Alright, so you're past the beginner crash-and-burn phase and actually want to develop some ride cymbal nuance? A 20" ride is a sweet spot - big enough for some meat, small enough to still be controllable. This isn't a list of top-tier flagships; we're focusing on rides that will genuinely help an intermediate player grow, without breaking the bank or inducing frustration. Let's find you a ride that'll actually inspire you to practice more, not less.

Don't chase the 'vintage' sound unless you're prepared to spend serious cash - those qualities are often achieved through hammering and aging that's hard to replicate affordably. Watch out for overly-thin rides; they often lack sustain and have a brittle sound. A slightly heavier weight is generally a safer bet for gigging and getting a full sound.

Ultimately, listen to videos and, if possible, try them out yourself. What sounds good on a recording might not feel right under your 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 146 20" ride 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 a crash/ride and a dedicated ride?

Crash/rides are a compromise. They're designed to be both, and excel at neither. A dedicated ride is built for nuanced stickwork and complex rhythms, with a more focused bell and controlled wash.

I'm on a budget. Should I buy a cheap ride or save up for something better?

A cheap ride will likely sound thin and brittle, and won't inspire you to practice. Saving up for a slightly better quality ride is a worthwhile investment in your musical development.

What does 'hammering' mean for a cymbal's sound?

Hammering creates dents and bends in the cymbal's surface, altering its vibration patterns. It can add complexity and a 'wetter' sound, but too much hammering can make a cymbal harsh or uneven.

My ride sounds too harsh. What can I do?

Try experimenting with different stick positions and angles. You can also try using an o-ring on your sticks to soften the attack. Muffling the edges slightly with tape can also tame harsh frequencies.

I'm getting a lot of overtones I can't control. Is this normal?

Some overtones are natural, but excessive ones can indicate a poorly made or unbalanced cymbal. Try repositioning the cymbal on your stand to see if it helps, and consider a different model if the problem persists.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 81Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal · $426€379
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