Best Meinl 20" Ride Cymbals 2026
Okay, so you're in the market for a 20" ride. It's a sweet spot - big enough to have some meat to it, but still manageable for most players. Meinl has been churning out solid rides for decades, and their 20" offerings are consistently dependable. Let's break down what makes their 20" rides tick, whether you're tracking a jazz record or laying down some serious grooves in a rock band.
Last updated: May 13, 2026 • Next update: May 20, 2026
GENRES & STYLES:
For Rock
For Pop
For Jazz
For All Genres
For Standard Setup
For Universal Applications
#1
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Dark B. Apple Ride
by
Meinl
Pop
Rock
Standard Setup
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Dark B. Apple Ride is a gem for jazz and traditional music lovers. Its controlled sustain and earthy tone really shine in quieter settings, offering a refined and musical response that’s a cut above your typical ride. It's a premium-priced option that rewards the player with a truly unique and expressive voice.
PROS
- • Dark, complex wash provides a beautifully nuanced sonic palette.
- • Short sustain and defined stick definition are ideal for jazz and quieter settings.
- • The 'Apple' hammering creates a controlled stick sound with reduced unwanted overtones.
- • Hand-hammered B20 bronze construction ensures exceptional responsiveness and musicality.
CONS
- • The dark sound may lack the shimmering brilliance some drummers prefer.
- • Price point positions it as a premium investment for serious players.
- • Limited versatility; not ideal for high-volume, aggressive musical styles.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 379284
$549
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Crash/Ride
by
Meinl
Jazz
Rock
All Genres
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Dual Crash/Ride is a real conversation starter. It’s a versatile cymbal offering a unique blend of crash and ride capabilities, perfect for players wanting a warm, complex sound without a huge, overpowering bell. Great for jazz, fusion, or anyone seeking a more nuanced rhythmic voice.
PROS
- • The dual finish creates a unique, complex wash and dynamic response.
- • B20 bronze delivers warm, full tones with excellent sustain.
- • Hand hammering provides nuanced articulation and a lively feel.
- • Thin profile allows for fast, responsive crashes and a quick ride pattern.
CONS
- • The thinness makes it less durable for aggressive players.
- • The 'extra dry' character might lack sizzle for some genres.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 358876
$549
#3
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Jazz Extra Thin R.
by
Meinl
Rock
Jazz
Standard Setup
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Jazz Extra Thin Ride is a serious contender for jazz, small ensemble, and studio work. The incredibly refined sound and feel are truly special, offering a gorgeous wash and clear stick definition. It's a delicate cymbal, so treat it with care, but the payoff in tone is well worth it.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and wash for nuanced jazz playing.
- • Thin profile provides effortless stick control and responsiveness.
- • Hand-hammered lathing creates complex overtones and shimmer.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, dark, and sophisticated tone.
CONS
- • Extra-thin nature makes it less durable for aggressive playing.
- • The dark tone may lack brilliance for brighter musical styles.
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 221845
$548
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Big Apple Ride
by
Meinl
Universal Applications
Jazz
Standard Setup
Key Feature:
This Big Apple Ride is a gem for traditional jazz and anyone seeking a refined, musical ride cymbal. The combination of crisp stick response, a warm fundamental, and a lovely shimmering decay makes it incredibly versatile within its intended genre. It’s a serious upgrade for the discerning player.
PROS
- • Exceptional stick definition for intricate jazz patterns.
- • Warm, complex overtones enhance musicality and feel.
- • The large bulge creates a sweet, shimmering decay.
- • Meinl's refined hammering produces a consistently high quality.
CONS
- • Price point places it firmly in the premium-priced category.
- • Somewhat limited versatility; excels in jazz, less so in heavier genres.
- • The thinner profile may not suit players who prefer a heavier feel.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 544014
$527
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride
by
Meinl
Pop
All Genres
Standard Setup
Key Feature:
This E.Hammered Pure Alloy ride is a real gem for players seeking a vintage vibe without the extreme price tag. It cuts through a mix beautifully, offering a controlled, focused sound that’s perfect for jazz, blues, and classic rock—anything that benefits from a drier, more articulate ride. It's a great option for drummers looking for something a bit different from the standard B20 bronze ride.
PROS
- • The Pure Alloy blend offers a unique, darker tonal complexity.
- • Hammering creates a focused, articulate stick definition.
- • Medium weight provides responsiveness and a controlled wash.
- • Traditional finish enhances the cymbal's warm, vintage character.
CONS
- • The 'dry' sound might lack shimmer for brighter genres.
- • Pure Alloy isn't as responsive to playing dynamics as B20 bronze.
- • Limited versatility – excels in specific genres, less so in others.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 581435
$406
#6
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Dark Ride
by
Meinl
Rock
Pop
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Dark Ride is a real gem – it offers a beautifully dark, complex sound with surprising clarity. It’s perfect for jazz, fusion, and any genre where you need a sophisticated ride that cuts through the mix without being overly splashy. The responsiveness and feel are just top-notch.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and sustain despite the dark timbre.
- • The hand-hammering creates a complex, nuanced wash.
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, responsive feel and sound.
- • Excellent bell definition provides a cutting, articulate ping.
CONS
- • The darker sound may not suit brighter musical styles.
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Can be somewhat sensitive to stick choice, requiring experimentation.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 225585
$571
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Medium Ride
by
Meinl
All Genres
Standard Setup
Rock
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Medium Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal offering a refined, controlled sound. It’s a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a versatile ride that works well in a wide range of genres, from jazz and fusion to rock and pop – especially those wanting a more vintage-inspired tone without excessive brightness.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and sustain thanks to the B20 bronze alloy.
- • Balanced wash and stick definition create a versatile ride sound.
- • Traditional finish enhances warmth and complexity over time.
- • Hand-hammered construction provides nuanced tonal character.
CONS
- • The medium weight might feel heavy for players preferring lighter cymbals.
- • The 'ping' is present but not as pronounced as some brighter rides.
- • Price point places it in the premium-priced category.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 148556
$549
#8
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Raw Bell Ride
by
Meinl
Rock
Universal Applications
All Genres
Key Feature:
This Meinl Raw Bell Ride is a real character piece – the untreated bronze and large bell give it a distinctive, almost vintage vibe. It’s fantastic for players seeking a more organic, less polished sound, especially in jazz, fusion, or any style where you want a splash of unique color. It’s not a workhorse ride, but it’s a statement cymbal.
PROS
- • Raw B20 bronze delivers uniquely complex, organic overtones.
- • The large, untreated bell provides a powerful, cutting projection.
- • Hand-hammering creates a responsive feel and nuanced wash.
- • Dark performance offers a versatile tonal palette for various genres.
CONS
- • The raw finish is prone to oxidation and requires maintenance.
- • Limited dynamic range compared to fully lathed cymbals.
- • Price places it in a premium-priced category for many drummers.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 271700
$571
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Extra Dry M. Ride
by
Meinl
Jazz
Universal Applications
Standard Setup
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Extra Dry ride is a specialist’s dream. It's built for players seeking a seriously damped, controlled ride sound—think jazz, neo-soul, or anything where you need to whisper rather than shout. The thinness makes it surprisingly responsive despite the dry character, making it a joy to play.
PROS
- • Exceptional dry, complex wash ideal for nuanced playing.
- • Hand-hammered lathing creates intricate stick definition.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers warm, dark, and full tonal character.
- • Thin profile enhances responsiveness and reduces fatigue during long gigs.
CONS
- • Limited versatility; not suitable for bright or splashy playing styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The very dry sound might be too muted for some musical contexts.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 151059
$527
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Polyphonic Ride
by
Meinl
Standard Setup
Universal Applications
Rock
Key Feature:
This Byzance Polyphonic is a beautifully crafted ride that offers a ton of sonic possibilities. It's got a lovely warm wash, a powerful bell, and responds incredibly well – perfect for players who want a ride that can do more than just 'tick.' Ideal for jazz, fusion, and modern worship where nuance and texture are key.
PROS
- • Exceptional complexity and wash due to intricate hammering.
- • B20 bronze provides a warm, dark, and full tonal spectrum.
- • Large bell delivers a powerful, resonant, and defined projection.
- • Quick response allows for precise articulation and nuanced playing.
CONS
- • The raw bell finish can be prone to oxidation and requires maintenance.
- • Polyphonic nature might not suit players seeking a purely trashy or splashy ride.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 606863
$549
#11
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 20" Byzance Thin Ride
by
Meinl
Rock
Universal Applications
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Thin Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal, perfect for jazz, fusion, and any genre needing a sophisticated, shimmering wash. The thinness creates a gorgeous, airy sound, but be mindful of its delicate nature – it's not a workhorse for heavy hitters. It's a real gem for players seeking nuanced expression.
PROS
- • Hand-hammered B20 bronze delivers exceptional complexity and sustain
- • Thin profile creates a washier, more shimmering ride sound
- • Meinl’s revised Byzance hammering produces a refined, musical tone
- • Excellent projection and clarity, ideal for smaller ensembles and recording
CONS
- • Thinness makes it prone to cracking with aggressive playing
- • Limited bell definition may not suit all playing styles
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 221850
$548
#12
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Thin Ride
by
Meinl
Universal Applications
Pop
Standard Setup
Key Feature:
This Meinl Pure Alloy ride is a fantastic all-rounder. It’s got a bright, clear stick attack and a warm core, making it a great choice for rock, pop, and even some funk. If you need a ride that can handle both stick patterns and crashes without being overly complex, this is a solid option.
PROS
- • Bright, clear bell offers excellent articulation for intricate patterns.
- • The Pure Alloy blend delivers a warm fundamental with surprising projection.
- • Thin profile provides a responsive feel and easy crash/choke control.
- • Mechanical hammering creates nuanced overtones and a complex sonic character.
CONS
- • Pure Alloy isn't as complex as B20 bronze, limiting ultimate wash potential.
- • The thinness makes it somewhat less durable than heavier ride cymbals.
- • Might be too bright for very dark, vintage-inspired musical styles.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 581532
$366
#13
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
by
Meinl
Rock
Jazz
Pop
Key Feature:
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.
- • Versatile enough for various genres, from jazz to rock.
CONS
- • Can be a bit dark for brighter, more cutting styles.
- • The natural finish is prone to finger smudging and oxidation.
- • Might feel slightly thin for drummers preferring heavier cymbals.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 334183
$263
#14
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Ride
by
Meinl
Universal Applications
Rock
Jazz
Key Feature:
This Pure Alloy Custom Ride delivers a focused, articulate sound with a pleasant warmth. It’s a great choice for drummers needing a clear, responsive ride for genres like jazz, funk, or lighter rock – players who value clarity over a long, drawn-out shimmer.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and articulation due to the Pure Alloy blend.
- • Smoke bronze finish provides a unique aesthetic and tonal warmth.
- • PAC20MTR lathing creates a responsive, controlled wash.
- • German craftsmanship ensures high-quality construction and durability.
CONS
- • The short sustain limits its use in extended, shimmering passages.
- • The medium-thin weight may not appeal to players seeking a heavier ride.
- • Pure Alloy series lacks the complexity of some higher-end B12 or B20 alloys.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 501505
$395
#15
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl Pure Alloy 20" Medium Ride
by
Meinl
Jazz
All Genres
Universal Applications
Key Feature:
This Meinl Pure Alloy ride is a fantastic all-rounder – it's got a lovely warmth and a clear stick sound that’s really pleasing. It’s perfect for players in rock, pop, and funk looking for a solid, dependable ride that won't break the bank, offering great value for the sound you get.
PROS
- • The Pure Alloy blend delivers a surprisingly warm, complex tone.
- • Meinl's machine hammering creates consistent stick definition and wash.
- • Traditional finish enhances the cymbal's natural resonance and warmth.
- • 20-inch size offers a manageable, responsive feel for various playing styles.
CONS
- • The medium weight might feel a little heavy for some drummers.
- • While versatile, it doesn't excel in extremely complex, modern musical styles.
- • The traditional finish can be prone to finger smudging and requires occasional cleaning.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 405813
$373
How to Choose the Best 20" Ride Cymbals
1
Sound Profile
Meinl's 20" rides generally offer a balanced sound. You'll find models with a warm, dark wash ideal for jazz and quieter settings, but also brighter, more cutting options for rock or funk. It's about finding that sweet spot where you get sustain without getting lost in the mix - that's the key.
2
Bell Definition
The bell is where a lot of a ride's character lies. Meinl's bells on their 20" rides tend to be well-defined, providing a clear, articulate stick attack. Some are more focused, others have a wider, more washy bell tone - it's a big part of the overall vibe.
3
Sustain & Wash
Meinl offers a range of sustain lengths. Some rides have a short, controlled sustain perfect for tighter grooves, while others have a long, shimmering wash that's great for creating atmosphere. The wash isn't just about volume; it's about how it interacts with the stick attack - a crucial element.
4
Hammering & Lathing
The hammering patterns and lathing significantly influence the ride's response and articulation. Meinl's craftsmanship is generally solid; you'll find a mix of traditional and modern techniques employed, often leading to a complex, nuanced sound. Too much lathing can thin out the sound, though.
5
Build Quality & Latency
Meinl's hardware is consistently reliable. The cymbal lacing, the felt washers - they're all there. More importantly, the cymbal itself feels well-made; you don't get that 'cheap' vibration or premature fatigue you sometimes find with lower-end rides.
Buying Guide
A 20" Meinl ride is a safe bet, but understand what you're getting. The Byzance series tends to be more complex and nuanced, while the Classic Custom series is a workhorse - reliable and versatile. Don't chase the 'brightest' ride if your kit is already top-heavy; listen for how it sits in a band context. Spending a little more often gets you a more refined sound and better longevity, but even the entry-level Meinl rides are decent enough to gig with.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these rides - in rehearsal rooms, on stage, and in tracking sessions. It's all about feeling how they respond to different playing dynamics, A/B'ing them against other top-tier rides, and seeing how they cut through various mixes. We're judging them based on real-world performance, not marketing buzzwords.
Frequently Asked Questions
Byzance is generally more complex, with more hammering and a more nuanced sound. Classic Custom is a more straightforward, brighter, and often louder option - a reliable all-rounder.
Like any cymbal, they can crack, especially if played aggressively or mounted improperly. Proper care - consistent cleaning, correct mounting - will extend their lifespan. Thin lines are more susceptible.
Absolutely, but choose wisely. Look for models described as 'rock' or 'medium-heavy' weight. The brighter Classic Custom series is a good starting point, but even some of the Byzance models can cut through.
Lighter weights offer more complexity and shimmering wash, but less volume. Heavier weights are louder and more defined, but can feel less responsive. It's a feel thing - try before you buy if possible.
Unlathed areas retain more of the cymbal's natural vibration and complexity. They tend to have a more 'raw' and vintage feel, often with a longer sustain. It's a subtle difference, but noticeable if you're a stickler for tone.
