Best 22" Ride Cymbals 2026
Alright, so you're in the market for a 22" ride? Smart move. It's the Goldilocks size - big enough to get a respectable wash and sustain, but still manageable for quick stickwork and doesn't completely swamp a smaller kit. A good 22" can be the backbone of your sound, whether you're laying down a jazz groove, pushing a rock beat, or just practicing in your bedroom, but finding the right one takes some digging.
Last updated: July 8, 2026 • Next update: July 15, 2026
⚡ The best 22" ride cymbals in 2026 are Istanbul Mehmet 22" Black Sea 1623 Ride (top pick), Istanbul Mehmet 22" Nostalgia 70's Ride for tighter budgets, and Istanbul Agop 22" Agop Signature Ride for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $412–$1,483, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
GENRES & STYLES:
For Rock
For Hard Rock
For Progressive
For Power Playing
For Large Venues
For Heavy Music
#1
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Istanbul Mehmet 22" Black Sea 1623 Ride
Large Venues
Progressive
Power Playing
Key Feature:
The Black Sea 1623 is a beautifully crafted ride, steeped in Turkish tradition. It's perfect for players seeking a dark, nuanced wash and a controlled bell – think jazz, neo-soul, or any genre where a sophisticated, understated cymbal voice is needed. This ride really sings when you want a sophisticated, moody vibe.
PROS
- • Exceptional hand-hammering creates complex overtones and warmth.
- • B20 bronze delivers a full, responsive, and dark tone.
- • The bell provides a clear, defined projection without harshness.
- • Excellent craftsmanship evident in the even lathing and consistent hammering.
CONS
- • The dark, dry sound might not suit brighter musical styles.
- • Relatively heavy, potentially fatiguing in extended playing sessions.
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 468523
$516
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Istanbul Mehmet 22" Nostalgia 70's Ride
Heavy Music
Large Venues
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Nostalgia 70's Ride is a real throwback – it nails that vintage Turkish cymbal vibe. If you’re playing classic rock, blues, or anything that needs a warm, enveloping sound with a controlled stick attack, this is a fantastic choice. It's a premium-priced option, but the character is worth it.
PROS
- • Warm, complex wash evokes classic 1970s Turkish cymbals.
- • Dark, controlled stick definition provides excellent articulation.
- • Hand-hammered lathing creates a uniquely responsive feel.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a vintage, slightly smoky timbre.
CONS
- • The darker sound isn't ideal for very bright, modern music genres.
- • Its wash might overwhelm quieter playing styles or genres.
- • The inwash profile can be a bit sensitive to striking location.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 407662
$538
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Istanbul Agop 22" Agop Signature Ride
Rock
Hard Rock
Large Venues
Key Feature:
This Agop Signature Ride is a serious contender for players seeking a sophisticated, articulate ride sound. The hand-hammering creates a really complex wash, and it's surprisingly responsive for a darker cymbal. It's a fantastic choice for jazz, fusion, and rock drummers who want a refined, musical ride without excessive shimmer.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and complexity due to hand-hammering technique.
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, dark tone with musical overtones.
- • Crash-ride versatility expands sonic possibilities across genres.
- • Well-defined bell provides a focused, articulate wash.
CONS
- • The dry character might be too muted for brighter, more splashy styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Heavier than some modern ride cymbals; can fatigue in extended play.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 435656
$626
#4
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Istanbul Mehmet 22" Nostalgia 50's Ride
Rock
Large Venues
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Nostalgia 50's ride is a fantastic choice for drummers chasing a classic, vintage cymbal sound. It’s got a beautiful, warm wash with a really articulate bell – perfect for jazz, blues, or anyone wanting that smoky, retro vibe. The build quality is superb, and it’ll age gracefully over time.
PROS
- • Warm, vintage-inspired wash with surprising clarity
- • Larger bell provides a distinct, articulate projection
- • Hand-hammered lathing enhances complexity and responsiveness
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a full, rich tonal character
CONS
- • Can be a bit dark for brighter musical styles
- • The heavier weight might fatigue some players during extended use
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 409509
$538
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Istanbul Mehmet 22" Legend Dry Ride
Large Venues
Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Legend Dry Ride from Istanbul Mehmet is a beautifully crafted cymbal offering a very controlled, dry sound with surprising complexity. It’s perfect for players in jazz, fusion, or anyone seeking a sophisticated, understated ride – especially those who appreciate a darker, more nuanced tone rather than a washier, brighter response. The hand-hammering really shines here, adding a unique feel and sonic texture.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and definition within a dry, controlled wash
- • The 2B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, nuanced tone
- • Hand-hammering creates unique sonic character and responsiveness
- • Solid bell provides a dark, musical projection without overwhelming the stick.
CONS
- • The 'dry' nature limits versatility for brighter musical styles
- • Can be a bit unforgiving – requires precise stick technique
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 463268
$516
#6
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Jazz Med. Ride
Progressive
Power Playing
Heavy Music
Key Feature:
This Istanbul Agop Traditional Jazz Ride is a real gem for players seeking a warm, articulate sound. It’s got that classic jazz feel with a surprising amount of projection, and the dark wash keeps things controlled. If you're a jazz drummer or play in a style that demands a sophisticated, musical ride, this is a serious contender.
PROS
- • Rich, complex wash with a defined stick definition for jazz nuances.
- • B20 bronze construction delivers a warm, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates a uniquely responsive and musical playing experience.
- • Dark wash provides a controlled, darker timbre suitable for various styles.
CONS
- • The heavier weight might be fatiguing for players with a lighter touch.
- • While versatile, it's not ideal for aggressively loud, modern rock applications.
- • The Traditional series lacks the brightness of some other Agop lines.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 581326
$494
#7
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash/Ride
by
Paiste
Power Playing
Progressive
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
The Paiste Masters Dark Crash/Ride is a beautifully crafted, versatile cymbal. Its warm, dark tone and surprising clarity make it ideal for players seeking a sophisticated ride or a darker crash, particularly in genres like jazz, fusion, and progressive rock where cutting through a dense sonic landscape is essential.
PROS
- • CuSn20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and dark tonal foundation.
- • Hand-hammered Swiss construction ensures exceptional consistency and quality.
- • The unique 'Dark' voicing cuts through dense mixes with surprising clarity.
- • Versatile enough for both ride and crash duties, expanding sonic possibilities.
CONS
- • The dark, complex timbre may not suit brighter musical genres.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Heavier than many other 22in cymbals, demanding more physical endurance.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 431505
$725
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Istanbul Agop 22" Agop Signature Flat Ride
Power Playing
Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Agop Signature Flat Ride is a serious piece of kit. It delivers a beautifully controlled, dark wash and a really articulate stick response – perfect for rock, metal, and heavier styles where you need that dry, defined sound without a ton of splash. It’s a workhorse ride that’ll hold up to a lot of abuse and still sound incredible.
PROS
- • Exceptional tonal complexity from hand-hammering and B20 bronze alloy.
- • Dry stick attack provides precise articulation and minimizes unwanted overtones.
- • Versatile crash-ride capability expands rhythmic possibilities for drummers.
- • The dark, controlled wash is incredibly musical and sits well in a mix.
CONS
- • The dark, dry sound may not suit brighter musical styles like funk or jazz.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Flat profile limits some of the shimmering, washy characteristics of a traditional ride.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 435680
$633
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Istanbul Agop 22" Cindy Blackman OM Ride
Rock
Progressive
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Cindy Blackman OM Ride is a serious instrument—it’s got that signature dark, controlled sound she's known for, perfect for rock, funk, and anything needing a focused, powerful ride. The hand-hammering really makes it respond beautifully to subtle nuances, and the bell is surprisingly musical without being overpowering. If you're looking for a workhorse ride with a modern, dry tone, this is an excellent choice.
PROS
- • Exceptional stick definition thanks to the hand-hammered B20 bronze construction.
- • Cindy Blackman’s signature dark, dry sound cuts through dense mixes.
- • The bell delivers a focused, musical wash, avoiding excessive overtones.
- • Agop’s Big Cat hammering creates a responsive, articulate playing experience.
CONS
- • The dark, dry sound might lack shimmer for some players' preferred styles.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Its focused sound character limits versatility across all musical genres.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 382816
$611
#10
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Zildjian 22" Kerope Med. Thin High Ride
by
Zildjian
Progressive
Heavy Music
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Kerope ride is a serious statement piece. It's got that classic Zildjian warmth and depth, perfect for jazz, fusion, and anyone chasing a vintage vibe. If you want a ride with real character and a gorgeous wash, this is a top contender, though it's a premium-priced investment.
PROS
- • Exceptional warmth and complexity, a hallmark of Kerope series.
- • The deep bevel enhances brushwork, adding versatility.
- • High profile delivers a shimmering wash and clear stick definition.
- • Craigie Zildjian signature adds a collector's appeal and prestige.
CONS
- • The medium-heavy weight may feel cumbersome for some drummers.
- • High-end price point restricts accessibility for many players.
- • Dark textures may clash with brighter, more modern drum sounds.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 617668
$1,484
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Istanbul Agop 22" 30th Anniversary Med. Ride
Heavy Music
Large Venues
Progressive
Key Feature:
This 30th Anniversary ride is a real statement piece. It's got that classic Istanbul Agop warmth and complexity, but with added weight and projection for modern playing. Ideal for players in jazz, funk, or anyone wanting a sophisticated, dark ride with a vintage vibe.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex wash with surprising articulation.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced overtones and a responsive feel.
- • The 'pre-aging' imparts a unique, vintage aesthetic and mellows the tone.
- • Increased weight provides excellent projection and cut across a busy kit.
CONS
- • The darker tone might not suit players seeking a bright, shimmering ride.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The heavier weight can be fatiguing for players with a lighter touch.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 581309
$824
#12
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Sabian 22" HHX Omni Brilliant/Natural
by
Sabian
Large Venues
Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Omni Brilliant/Natural ride from Sabian is a real chameleon – it’s got a warm, dark core but can really cut when you need it to. Jojo Mayer's influence shines through in its playability; it's incredibly controllable. It's a fantastic choice for drummers who need a versatile ride that can handle everything from subtle grooves to powerful accents.
PROS
- • The Brilliant/Natural finish offers a unique tonal blend and striking visual appeal.
- • Jojo Mayer’s input delivers exceptional responsiveness and dynamic control.
- • The hammering pattern provides a warm, dark tone with surprising projection.
- • Its versatility allows seamless integration across various musical styles and volumes.
CONS
- • The Brilliant zones can be prone to finger marks, requiring more frequent cleaning.
- • The complex hammering and lathing contribute to a premium-priced investment.
- • While versatile, it might not be the absolute best choice for purely shimmering wash sounds.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 343097
$725
#13
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meinl 22" Byzance Medium Ride
by
Meinl
Hard Rock
Rock
Heavy Music
Key Feature:
This Meinl Byzance Medium Ride is a seriously versatile workhorse. It’s got a great balance of warmth and articulation – perfect for rock, pop, funk, and even jazz where you need a little more cut. It's a real step up for intermediate to professional players looking for a refined, controllable ride sound.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity with a controlled, musical wash
- • Hammered profile creates complex, shimmering overtones
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, full fundamental tone
- • Well-balanced stick response with a defined, articulate ping
CONS
- • Can be a bit bright for very mellow or vintage-focused styles
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers
- • Medium weight might feel fatiguing during extended, heavy playing
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 111844
$604
#14
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Crash Ride
Progressive
Hard Rock
Heavy Music
Key Feature:
This Istanbul Agop 22” Traditional Crash Ride is a fantastic, versatile option for drummers seeking a dark, powerful sound with a complex wash. It’s a real workhorse – perfect for rock, blues, and even some jazz – offering both crash and ride capabilities in one cymbal. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of character.
PROS
- • Exceptional projection and volume for a 22” cymbal.
- • The hammering creates a complex, evolving wash and stick definition.
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, dark, and responsive character.
- • Versatile enough for crash and ride duties, a true hybrid.
CONS
- • The dark sound may not suit brighter musical styles like metal or funk.
- • Hand-hammered nature means slight variations exist between individual cymbals.
- • Can be a bit heavy for players preferring lighter cymbals.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 581324
$527
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Istanbul Agop 22" Xist Ride Brilliant
Rock
Heavy Music
Power Playing
Key Feature:
The Xist Ride Brilliant is a really solid, versatile ride—it’s got that modern clarity with a touch of warmth that works well across genres. It's a great option for players who want a responsive ride that cuts through a mix without being overly splashy, especially appealing to those in contemporary worship, rock, and pop settings.
PROS
- • Clear stick definition provides precise, controlled playing.
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and musical tone.
- • Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.
- • Balanced wash supports diverse musical styles and dynamics.
CONS
- • Brilliant finish can be prone to finger marks and tarnishing.
- • Might be too bright for drummers seeking a darker, vintage sound.
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 265115
$413
How to Choose the Best 22" Ride Cymbals
1
Weight
Heavier rides (2200g+) generally offer more sustain and a fuller, more complex wash. Lighter rides (under 2000g) will be more responsive and easier to control for intricate patterns, but might lack the body you need for a louder band. Think about your playing style and the genre - a metal drummer needs something different than a fusion player.
2
Bell Size & Profile
A larger bell creates a more prominent 'ping' - useful for cutting through a dense mix or adding a contrasting shimmer. A thinner bell will be more responsive and easier to manipulate for subtle tonal variations. The bell's profile (taper) affects its responsiveness - a sharper taper is more immediate.
3
Hammering & Lathing
Less hammering generally results in a brighter, more complex wash with more overtones. Heavy hammering creates a darker, more focused tone with less wash. Lathing (the grooves cut into the cymbal) affects sustain and articulation - deeper lathing typically enhances both.
4
B20 vs. B8 Alloy
B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin - the standard) offers a more complex, nuanced tone with a wider range of frequencies. B8 bronze is cheaper, brighter, and less complex. While B8 can be serviceable, especially on a budget, you'll almost always want B20 if you're serious about your sound.
5
Wash & Stick Definition
This is the balance. A great ride has a wash that's present and musical but doesn't completely obscure your stick definition. You want to hear the stick clearly even as the cymbal is ringing. Too much wash and it's muddy; too little and it sounds brittle and dry.
Buying Guide
A 22" ride is a significant investment, so don't rush. Listen to videos, but even better, try them out in person if you can. Cheaper rides often cut corners on hammering and lathing, leading to a one-dimensional, harsh sound. Spending a little more for better bronze and more careful manufacturing will pay off in a cymbal that inspires you and sits well in a mix - it's about the sound, not the price tag.
Our Methodology
We don't just look at spec sheets here. We've spent years playing these things - in rehearsal rooms, on stage, in studios, and comparing them side-by-side. We're listening for the nuances, the sustain, the articulation, how they cut through a mix, and whether they actually inspire a good performance. It's about real-world feel and sound, not marketing buzzwords.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, a 'rock' ride will be heavier, more focused, and have a more prominent bell for cutting through a loud band. A 'jazz' ride will be lighter, more complex, and have a more nuanced wash and a less aggressive bell - prioritizing feel and subtlety.
Absolutely, but you'll want a heavier, more aggressively hammered ride to cut through the distortion and double bass. Look for something with a good amount of sustain and a bell that can project. Don't expect a shimmering, splashy sound though.
Unlathed rides retain more of their original hammering and create a really complex wash. They can be beautiful, but they can also be a bit chaotic. They're not for everyone, but if you like a ton of overtones, it's worth checking out.
Focus on finding a B20 ride, even if it's a slightly thinner weight. A well-made B20 will always sound better than a cheap B8. Don't be afraid of used gear - you can often find great deals on high-quality cymbals.
Finish affects the brightness. A bright, shiny finish will reflect more sound, making the cymbal sound brighter. A more matte finish will absorb some of the sound, resulting in a darker tone. It's a subtle difference, but it can influence the overall character of the ride.
