AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Zultan 20" Ride Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Zultan 20" Alaris Ride ($269). Zultan 20" Aja Blaze Ride gives you the most for the money at $190. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 21 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size20"
This Turkish-made ride hits hard with clear stick definition but keeps a warm wash. The B20 bronze gives it an assertive bell that stays balanced. It fits players who want articulate cuts without losing tone.
Pros
- Handmade in Turkey with B20 bronze
- Excellent stick definition on the ride
- Warm wash for smooth tones
Cons
- No weight or thickness listed
- Finish type not explicitly stated
55AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$280 · Aug 17$269 now$269€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This 20-inch ride offers a sweet spot between power and control. Made from B20 bronze by hand, it hits hard but settles down quickly. It fits well in a mid-range budget kit looking for a punchy sound.
Pros
- Handmade from high-quality B20 bronze alloy
- Delivers an explosive attack characteristic
- Maintains a soft, controlled sustain quality
Cons
- No specific finish type listed in description
- Lacks stated weight specifications
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$190 now$190€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Zultan Aja is a surprisingly bright and articulate ride for the price. It’s a great option for players looking for a clean, cutting sound without spending a fortune—especially good for modern pop, funk, or lighter rock styles where a crisp stick response is key.
Pros
- Bright, clear wash with a focused stick definition.
- B20 bronze alloy offers a unique tonal character.
- Relatively lightweight for extended playing sessions.
Cons
- Lacks the dark, complex overtones of higher-end cymbals.
- May be too bright for drummers preferring a vintage, dry sound.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$190 now$190€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan ride is a real gem for jazz, small ensemble, and studio work. The raw finish and hand-hammering create a beautifully controlled and musical sound – it’s got that vintage vibe without being brittle. If you’re looking for a ride that responds sensitively and cuts through a mix without being overpowering, this is a fantastic option.
Pros
- Hand-hammering creates complex, musical overtones and warmth.
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a darker, more controlled sound.
- Raw, unlathed surface minimizes unwanted ringing and harshness.
Cons
- The raw finish can be prone to minor oxidation or patina changes.
- Limited versatility; not ideal for heavier, modern drumming styles.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$246 now$246€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Raw Ride is a surprisingly musical cymbal for the price. The raw finish gives it a really unique, muted character that sits beautifully in a mix – perfect for jazz, folk, or anyone wanting a darker, more vintage ride sound. It’s a solid choice for gigging musicians seeking a distinctive voice without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Warm, dark tone achieved through hand-hammering and B20 bronze construction
- Dry, earthy sound minimizes unwanted overtones, promoting clarity
- Excellent stick definition provides precise and controlled articulation
Cons
- Raw finish lacks the longevity and protection of more finished cymbals
- Limited versatility; excels in specific genres, less suited for bright styles
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$246 now$246€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Raw Flat is a seriously interesting ride. It’s got that old-school, almost Turkish vibe – really focused and musical without a ton of wash. It's perfect for jazz, funk, or anyone needing a sensitive, controlled ride that cuts through without being overpowering.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and response.
- Raw finish minimizes sustain and unwanted overtones effectively.
Cons
- Raw finish lacks the visual appeal of more polished cymbals.
- Limited versatility; not suited for bright, splashy playing styles.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$258 now$258€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Rock Beat Heavy Ride is a real workhorse. It's got a full, powerful sound that’ll really cut through a rock or hard rock band, and the robust build means it can take a beating. Ideal for players needing serious volume and a defined stick attack without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- B-20 bronze provides a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Heavy weight delivers powerful projection and sustain.
- Power bell cuts through the mix with assertive clarity.
Cons
- The heavy weight may be fatiguing for extended playing.
- Limited versatility; excels in rock but less suited for delicate jazz.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$258 now$258€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Zultan F5 20 inch ride is a surprisingly powerful and articulate cymbal. It's a great choice for drummers who want a clear, defined ride sound with a strong bell presence – think modern rock, funk, or even jazz where you need to cut through. The hammering adds a touch of complexity, but it's not going to be your go-to for a super-washy vibe.
Pros
- Bright, penetrating bell offers excellent cut for larger kits
- Defined stick response provides clear articulation and musicality
- B-20 bronze construction delivers a warm, complex undertone
Cons
- Heavy weight may fatigue players during extended use
- Sound leans towards brighter frequencies, limiting versatility for some genres
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$258 now$258€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Rock Beat is a solid, workhorse ride – a great choice for rock, pop, and heavier genres where you need a clear, defined sound that cuts through. The B20 bronze gives it a nice warmth, and it's surprisingly sensitive for a cymbal in this price range. If you're building a kit or need a reliable, expressive ride without spending a fortune, this is worth a serious look.
Pros
- B20 bronze provides a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- The assertive bell cuts through dense mixes effectively.
- Hand-polishing creates a brilliant sheen and responsive stick feel.
Cons
- The 'Rock Beat' voicing might lack subtlety for jazz or fusion players.
- While affordable, the hand-hammering isn't as refined as higher-end cymbals.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$258 now$258€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Aeon Ride is a seriously well-voiced cymbal. It’s got a bright, shimmering quality but with a warm, darker core thanks to that B25 bronze – a real step up from your standard bronze alloy. This is a great choice for drummers who want a versatile ride with a touch of sophistication and a natural feel.
Pros
- B25 bronze provides a warm, complex tone absent in typical B12 cymbals.
- Hand-hammering creates a responsive, lively wash with excellent stick definition.
- Unlathed bell delivers a dark, musical fundamental, avoiding a harsh, processed sound.
Cons
- The B25 alloy can be slightly more brittle than standard bronze, requiring careful handling.
- While versatile, its darker tone might be less ideal for very bright, modern genres.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$269 now$269€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 21 20" ride cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Zultan 20" Q RideZultan54Stable$269€239$269€239Check ↗
- 12
Zultan 20" Alaris light RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 13
Zultan 20" Ride 25Zultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 14
Zultan 20" Dune RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 15
Zultan 20" Caz RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 16
Zultan 20" Aeon Light RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 17
Zultan 20" Heritage Flat RideZultan54Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 18
Zultan 20" Z-Series RideZultan54Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 19
Zultan 20" Mellow RideZultan54Stable$335€298$335€298Check ↗
- 20
Zultan 20" Heritage RideZultan54Stable$354€315$354€315Check ↗
- 21
Zultan 20" Ride Dark MatterZultan49↑ 10.1%$246€219$246€219Check ↗
20" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 146 models we track, not a sample.
Median $269 — half of all 20" ride cymbals here cost less.
median of 146 models · 20"–20"
How to choose the best 20" ride cymbals
Turkish Heritage & Alloy
Zultan uses a unique B20 bronze alloy with a higher tin content than many competitors. This contributes to their characteristic complex overtones and a really nuanced response - it's not just 'bright,' it's a shimmering, almost vocal quality.
Bell Definition & Sustain
The bell on a Zultan 20" ride is key. It's surprisingly defined, offering a clear, cutting stick sound without being harsh. The sustain is long and controlled; you get that wash without it spiraling into a messy, uncontrolled ring.
Wash and Articulation
The wash is what separates a decent ride from a special ride, and Zultan nails it. It's full and complex, but maintains excellent articulation - you can still hear the individual stick strikes even within the wash. This is crucial for genres like jazz or anything that demands a lot of dynamic control.
Weight and Feel
Zultan 20" rides tend to be medium-thin. This gives them a responsive feel and makes them easy to control, especially for lighter stick strokes. It's a nice balance - enough weight to project, but not so much that they feel sluggish.
Manufacturing Process
Zultan's hammering process is key to their sound. They're hand-hammered, which creates those complex overtones and gives each cymbal a unique sonic signature. You can feel the craftsmanship; it's not mass-produced stiffness.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Zultan 20" rides. You're probably chasing that shimmering, articulate wash that cuts through a dense mix, and a lot of rides just end up sounding brittle or muddy. Zultan's been quietly making incredible cymbals for decades, and their 20" rides are a seriously compelling option if you want something with real character - they're not just another cookie-cutter cymbal. These are the rides you reach for when you want to add depth and complexity, not just a 'tick' and a fade.
Look, Zultan isn't the cheapest option out there - you're paying for that heritage and hand-hammered quality. But you're also getting a ride that will genuinely elevate your playing. Be sure to listen to sound samples online, but ideally, try one out in person.
Every cymbal is unique, and the subtle differences in hammering will be apparent. Don't expect a super-loud, aggressive ride; these are about finesse and musicality.
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 21 20" ride cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 146 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
Are Zultan cymbals loud enough for a rock band?
They're not going to be as ear-splitting as a heavy, thin crash, but they project surprisingly well. The clarity and articulation mean they cut through a mix better than you might expect for their weight. It depends on your band's volume, but they're more suited for nuanced rock than full-on metal.
How do Zultan's compare to Sabian Artisan rides?
Artisans are fantastic, but Zultan's tend to have a more complex, almost 'vintage' sound. The Artisans are often a bit more focused and direct, while Zultan's offer a wider spectrum of overtones. It's a matter of personal preference, really.
What's the best stick to use with a Zultan ride?
Something with a nylon tip is ideal - it'll bring out the nuances of the cymbal without being overly harsh. Avoid metal tips; they'll just kill the warmth and complexity.
Do Zultan rides require a lot of maintenance?
Like any quality cymbal, they benefit from regular cleaning and occasional polishing. Don't let them get crusty - it'll dampen the sound and reduce sustain. A simple cymbal cleaner will do the trick.
Are all Zultan 20" rides the same?
No. Each cymbal is hand-hammered, so there will be subtle variations in tone and feel. Even within the same model, you'll notice differences. That's part of their charm - it's a unique instrument.
