AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 20" Ride Cymbals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal ($423). Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $245. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 141 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal
20" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian
83 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
You get a 20-inch ride cymbal with a medium deep tone. The maker says it is an excellent all-round ride and suits all musical styles. That makes it a solid choice if you want one ride that can handle most of the music you play.
Pros
- Zildjian's A-Series line, a well-known cymbal brand name
- Regular / Traditional version, a familiar, classic style of ride
- Medium deep tone, good for steady ride patterns
80AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$423 now$423€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal
20" S Series Medium Ride · Zildjian
83 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This is a 20-inch ride cymbal from Zildjian's S Series, made from B12 Bronze alloy with a brilliant finish. It has a bright, open sound and is turned on both sides, so it may suit you if you want an open-sounding ride cymbal.
Pros
- Made from B12 Bronze alloy, which is 88% copper and 12% tin
- Brilliant finish gives the cymbal a shiny look
- Turned on both sides for a worked cymbal surface
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Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
20" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl
26 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
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$260 now$260€233 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$285 now$285€255 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
20" Classics Custom Med. Ride · Meinl
26 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.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$289 now$289€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$267 now$267€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 20" A Series Ping Ride Cymbal 1986 - 2012
20" A-Series Ping Ride · Zildjian
25 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
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$445 now$445€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$445 now$445€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$423 now$423€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal
20" Classics Custom Dual Ride · Meinl
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Classics Custom Dual Ride is a solid workhorse – great for rock, metal, and modern pop. Meinl’s nailed the balance here: you get a warm core with plenty of explosive shimmer when you need it. It’s a really well-rounded ride that'll fit into a lot of different setups without being overly specialized.
Pros
- B-12 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex, and musical fundamental tone.
- Dual lathing creates a responsive wash and articulate stick definition.
- Dark/brilliant finish provides a balanced aesthetic and controlled overtones.
Cons
- Might be too dark sounding for players needing a bright, shimmering ride.
- The heavier weight (around 2100g) could be tiring for extended playing.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$300 now$300€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 141 20" ride cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Ride · Paiste70Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 12
Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Ride20" Xist Ride Natural · Istanbul Agop66Stable$352€315$352€315Check ↗
- 13
Zildjian 20" L80 Low Volume Ride Cymbal20" Low Volume Ride · Zildjian66Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 14
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered C-R · Meinl64Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 15
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Crash / Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride · Meinl63↓ 2.6%$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 16
Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash CymbalPST7 20" Ride · Paiste · 3 finishes76Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 17
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl62Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 18
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Custom Ride · Meinl62Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 19
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste63Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 20
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride20" Classics Extreme Ride · Meinl60Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 21
Istanbul Mehmet 20" IMC Bronze Ride Cymbal20" Ride IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet60Stable$318€285$318€285Check ↗
- 22
Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Brilliant Ride20" Xist Ride Brilliant · Istanbul Agop60Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 23
Sabian 20" B8X Rock Ride Cymbal20" XSR Rock Ride · Sabian59Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 24
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste63Stable$240€215$240€215Check ↗
- 25
Paiste 20" PST 8 Reflector Medium Ride Cymbal20" PST8 Reflector Rock Ride · Paiste · 2 finishes69Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 26
Paiste 2002 Classic 20" Heavy RidePaiste57↓ 5.4%$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 27
Paiste 20" RUDE Power Ride Cymbal20" Rude Power Ride · Paiste57Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 28
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Nostalgia 50s Ride Cymbal20" Nostalgia 50's Ride · Istanbul Mehmet56↓ 7.0%$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 29
Zultan 20" Alaris RideZultan57↓ 8.0%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 30
Zultan 20" Z-Series RideZultan55↓ 3.7%$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 31
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Original Ride Cymbal20" Original Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 32
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Medium Ride Cymbal20" Medium Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 33
Meinl 20" Class. Cust. Dark Heavy RiMeinl54Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 34
Meinl Pure Alloy 20" Medium RideMeinl54Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 35
Paiste 2002 Classic 20" Power RidePaiste54Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 36
Paiste 2002 Classic 20" RidePaiste54Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 37
Zultan 20" Aeon RideZultan53Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 38
Zultan 20" Q RideZultan53Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 39
Zultan 20" Alaris light RideZultan53Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 40
Zultan 20" Ride 25Zultan53Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 41
Zultan 20" Dune RideZultan53Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 42
Zultan 20" Caz RideZultan53Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 43
Zultan 20" Aeon Light RideZultan53Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 44
Zultan 20" Heritage Flat RideZultan53Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
- 45
Zultan 20" Mellow RideZultan53Stable$333€298$333€298Check ↗
- 46
Zultan 20" Heritage RideZultan53Stable$352€315$352€315Check ↗
- 47
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Origin Dark Ride Cymbal20" Ride Origin Dark Series · Istanbul Mehmet53Stable$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 48
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Samatya Ride Cymbal20" Ride Samatya Series · Istanbul Mehmet53Stable$463€415$463€415Check ↗
- 49
Istanbul Mehmet 20" MC Jazz Ride Cymbal20" Ride MC Jazz Series · Istanbul Mehmet53Stable$463€415$463€415Check ↗
- 50
Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Power RideIstanbul Agop52Stable$352€315$352€315Check ↗
20" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 147 models we track, not a sample.
Median $423 — half of all 20" ride cymbals here cost less.
median of 147 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 147 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.
