AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 22" Ride Cymbals for Advanced 2026
The top pick is Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal ($736). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 144 models across 9 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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Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal
22" Signature Full Ride · Paiste
27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
If you want one ride that does a lot, this Paiste 22" Signature could be a good pick for you. It has a round, warm base with a silvery top, and it opens up nicely when you play it freely. It is an all-purpose ride with big tone and wide range, so it suits you if you play many kinds of music and want one cymbal to cover most of it.
Pros
- Signature line from Paiste, a well-known cymbal maker
- Round, warm fundamental tone with silvery clarity on top
- Beautiful free response that sustains and opens up
Cons
- Medium loud volume may not suit very loud or heavy playing
79AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$736 now$736€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 22" HHX Complex Medium Ride Cymbal
22" HHX Complex Medium Ride · Sabian
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This HHX Complex Medium Ride is a real beauty – a warm, responsive ride with a gorgeous wash and a shimmering bell. It’s perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, expressive ride for genres like jazz, fusion, and modern rock where you need that nuanced character and a full, balanced tone.
Pros
- Warm, complex wash provides a sophisticated, musical foundation.
- Hand-hammered bell delivers a clear, articulate, and cutting shimmer.
- B20 bronze construction ensures excellent tonal projection and responsiveness.
Cons
- The medium weight might feel a bit heavy for players preferring lighter rides.
- Complex voicing may not suit extremely dry, minimalist playing styles.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$736 now$736€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal
22" Byzance Foundry Reserve R · Meinl
10 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size22"
The Meinl Foundry Reserve R 22in Ride is a seriously gorgeous cymbal. It’s got a beautifully controlled, dark sound with a dry attack that's perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, nuanced feel – think jazz, fusion, or even mellow rock. This is a top-tier choice for the discerning player who appreciates handcrafted quality and a unique sonic signature.
Pros
- Exceptional dark, nuanced wash perfect for jazz and beyond
- The large hammer blows create a unique, complex sonic texture
- B20 bronze construction delivers a warm, controlled, and musical response
Cons
- The dry attack might lack the shimmer some players prefer for brighter styles
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most drummers
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$780 now$780€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal
22" K Constantinople Low Ride · Zildjian
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This K Constantinople Low Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal, perfect for jazz, fusion, and quieter studio settings. The warm, controlled tone and responsive stick feel make it a joy to play, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional ride sounds. It's a premium-priced investment that delivers a distinct, professional tone.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and wash for a low-volume ride
- The K bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone
- Bell produces a dark, controlled projection without harshness
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to other 22 in ride options
- Lower volume response might not suit louder, high-energy genres
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$780 now$780€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal
22" K Constantinople Thin Ride · Zildjian
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This K Constantinople Thin Ride is a serious player's cymbal – the sound is incredibly refined and complex, offering a beautifully dark and atmospheric wash. It’s perfect for jazz, orchestral, or anyone seeking a vintage, understated ride tone; just be mindful of its delicate nature and premium price tag.
Pros
- Exceptional dark, wash cymbal response with nuanced complexity.
- The overhammering delivers a dry, controlled stick definition.
- Thin profile provides a uniquely responsive and expressive feel.
Cons
- The thinness makes it prone to cracking with aggressive playing.
- Its dark, dry sound isn’t ideal for bright or modern genres.
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Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal
22" Masters Dark Ride · Paiste
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
The Paiste Masters Dark Ride is a serious piece of kit. It delivers that classic, dark, shimmering ride sound that's perfect for modern rock, hip-hop, and genres where you need a sophisticated wash without sacrificing stick definition. If you're a seasoned pro looking for a top-tier ride, this is a strong contender.
Pros
- Exceptional warmth and balance, characteristic of Paiste Masters line.
- CuSn20 bronze provides complex overtones and a natural feel.
- Defined stick articulation cuts through dense mixes effortlessly.
Cons
- The dark, complex sound may not suit brighter musical styles.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most drummers.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$736 now$736€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride
22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Flat · Meinl
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This is a 22 inch flat ride made from B20 Bronze and hand hammered. You get a dynamic, light feel with an earthy character and clear stick definition, so your stick strokes stand out. It suits you if you want a ride that is light and focused and does not need a bell sound.
Pros
- Made from B20 Bronze, a common alloy for cymbals
- Hand hammered for a dynamic, light flat ride feel
- Earthy character with clear stick definition on each stroke
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$725 now$725€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 22" HH Remastered Todd Sucherman Signature Sessions Ride Cymbal
22" HH Sessions Ride · Sabian
17 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This Sessions Ride from Sabian is a seriously refined instrument. Todd Sucherman’s signature really shines through – it's got a beautiful, responsive stick sound, a lovely wash, and a bell that really projects. Ideal for players seeking a modern, articulate ride with a touch of vintage warmth, especially in rock, progressive, and fusion settings.
Pros
- Exceptional stick definition thanks to hand-hammering and lathing.
- Todd Sucherman's signature voicing offers a modern, versatile wash.
- B20 bronze provides a warm, complex, and musical tone.
Cons
- The brilliant finish is prone to finger smudging and requires frequent cleaning.
- The crash ability, while present, might be limiting for players needing heavy crashes.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$836 now$836€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Agop 22" 30th Anniversary Ride Cymbal Traditional
22" 30th Anniversary Ride · Istanbul Agop
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This 30th Anniversary Ride from Istanbul Agop is a serious contender if you're after a warm, complex wash and a defined stick sound. It's perfect for jazz, orchestral, and even softer rock styles where you want a sophisticated, vintage-inspired tone – just be aware it's not a bright, cutting ride.
Pros
- Exceptional tonal complexity; dark, shimmering wash with clear stick definition.
- Hand-hammering creates a beautifully nuanced, responsive feel and sound.
- The 'pre-aging' process imparts a visually appealing, vintage aesthetic.
Cons
- The dark, full sound isn't ideal for brighter, more cutting musical styles.
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many drummers.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$836 now$836€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Istanbul Agop 22" 30th Anniversary Ride Cymbal Traditional
22" 30th Anniversary Med. Ride · Istanbul Agop
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
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.
Cons
- The darker tone might not suit players seeking a bright, shimmering ride.
- Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many drummers.
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$847 now$847€759 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 144 22" ride cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin High Ride Cymbal22" K Constantinople High Ride · Zildjian72↓ 1.4%$769€689$769€689Check ↗
- 12
Paiste 22" RUDE "The Reign" Dave Lombardo Signature Power Ride Cymbal22" Signature Power Ride · Paiste70Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 13
Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal22" Masters Dark Crash/Ride · Paiste74Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 14
Paiste 22" Signature Reflector Nicko McBrain "Powerslave" Bell Ride…22" Reflector "The Powerslave" · Paiste74↓ 1.5%$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 15
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark Ride · Meinl78Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 16
Paiste 22" Signature Danny Carey Monad Dry Heavy Ride Cymbal22" Signature "Monad" Ride · Paiste71↓ 1.5%$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 17
Sabian 22" Brian Fraiser Moore Signature BFM World Ride Cymbal22" HHX BFM World Ride Cymbal · Sabian70↓ 1.5%$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 18
Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/Ride22" Byzance Sand Crash/Ride · Meinl75Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 19
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Trad. · Meinl79↓ 1.6%$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 20
Sabian 22" HHX Mike Portnoy Max Ride Cymbal22" HHX MAX Ride · Sabian64Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 21
Sabian 22" HHX Complex Big Cup Ride Cymbal22" HHX Complex Big Cup Ride · Sabian63Stable$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 22
Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Ham. Ride · Meinl73Stable$709€635$709€635Check ↗
- 23
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Spectrum RideMeinl71Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 24
Paiste 22" Masters Series Swish Cymbal22" Masters Swish Cymbal · Paiste74Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 25
Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Dry Th. Ride · Meinl73Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 26
Sabian 22" HHX Tempest CymbalSabian57Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 27
Meinl 22" Anika Nilles Lunar RideMeinl57Stable$769€689$769€689Check ↗
- 28
Paiste 22" Masters Dark FlatridePaiste56Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 29
Paiste 22" Traditional Light RidePaiste56Stable$814€729$814€729Check ↗
- 30
Paiste 22" 602 Mod. Essentials RidePaiste56Stable$814€729$814€729Check ↗
- 31
Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK2Paiste56Stable$825€739$825€739Check ↗
- 32
Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK1Paiste56Stable$825€739$825€739Check ↗
- 33
Meinl 22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light Ride22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light · Meinl70↓ 1.6%$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 34
Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/RideMeinl75Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 35
Zildjian 22" K Const. Renaissance RideZildjian55Stable$836€749$836€749Check ↗
- 36
Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Med. RideZildjian55Stable$914€819$914€819Check ↗
- 37
Zildjian 22" Kerope Medium Low RideZildjian55Stable$1,506€1,349$1,506€1,349Check ↗
- 38
Meinl 22" Byzance Brilliant Heavy Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Heavy H. Ride · Meinl69Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 39
Sabian 22" HHX Omni Brilliant/NaturalSabian54Stable$736€659$736€659Check ↗
- 40
Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Ride Cymbal22" Agop Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop75Stable$687€615$687€615Check ↗
- 41
Paiste 22" Masters Thin RidePaiste56Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 42
Paiste 22" Signature Mellow Ride Cymbal22" Signature Mellow Ride · Paiste66Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 43
Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Mel Lewis Ride22" Mel Lewis Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop71Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 44
Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Tradit. Light Ride · Meinl70Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 45
Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Symmetry Ride22" Byzance Symmetry Ride · Meinl64Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 46
Sabian 22" HHX Complex Thin Ride Cymbal22" HHX Complex Thin Ride · Sabian64Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 47
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Big Apple Ride · Meinl78Stable$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 48
Meinl 22" Byzance Equilibrium RideMeinl57Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 49
Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Mantra Ride22" Mantra Ride · Istanbul Agop65Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 50
Meinl 22" Byz. Sizzle Jazz Ch. RideMeinl57Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
22" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 146 models we track, not a sample.
Median $608 — half of all 22" ride cymbals here cost less.
median of 146 models · 22"–22"
How to choose the best 22" ride cymbals
Wash & Complexity
Advanced players aren't just looking for a 'ping'; they need a wash that evolves, with bell tones and overtones that respond to stick choice and dynamics. A flat, one-dimensional wash is unusable.
Articulation & Stick Definition
Can you hear what you're playing? A good advanced ride responds cleanly to ghost notes and subtle dynamic shifts, without getting muddy or indistinct. It's about clarity, not just volume.
Sustain & Decay
It's not just about how long the cymbal rings, but how it rings. A complex decay with multiple overtones is far more musical than a long, sustained drone. We're looking for character, not just duration.
Weight & Feel (Action)
The action - how the cymbal responds to the stick - is critical. A heavy, stiff ride will feel unresponsive, while a too-light one will be floppy and uncontrollable. The sweet spot is a balance that allows for nuanced control.
Timbre & Sonic Character
'Tone' is subjective, but at this level, it's about finding a cymbal that complements your playing style and the music you make. Do you want a dark, vintage vibe, or something brighter and more modern? It's about the specific sonic color.
Buying guide
So, you're beyond the beginner crash-ride phase and actually want a 22" ride to be your ride? Good. It's a sweet spot - big enough for some serious wash and complexity, but still manageable for nuanced playing. Forget the shimmering, overly bright stuff - we're looking for something with character, something that can lock in with a groove or cut through a dense mix without sounding brittle. This list isn't about 'best' in a general sense, it's about best for the advanced player who's chasing something specific.
Don't be swayed by marketing hype. A 22" ride is an investment, and corners will be cut on cheaper models - expect thinner profiles, less complex hammering, and a generally less responsive feel. Pay attention to the alloy - B20 is standard, but the exact ratios of tin, silver, and copper significantly impact the tone.
Ultimately, listen for yourself. What sounds great in a YouTube video might sound thin and lifeless in your kit.
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 22" 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 22" ride and a 20" ride?
The 22" gives you more wash and low-end presence, making it better for cutting through a band. A 20" is more direct and focused, ideal for quieter genres or situations where you need more control.
Are heavier cymbals always better?
Not necessarily. Heavier cymbals have more mass and sustain, but they can also feel less responsive and harder to control. It depends on your playing style and the music you play.
What's the deal with 'unlathed' vs. 'lathed' rides?
Unlathed cymbals tend to have a more raw, complex sound with more overtones. Lathing removes some of that complexity, resulting in a cleaner, more focused tone. It's a trade-off.
I'm hearing a lot about hammering - what does it actually do?
Hammering creates dents and waves in the cymbal's surface, which affects its vibration patterns. Different hammering techniques (e.g., bell hammering, shoulder hammering) create different sonic textures and overtones.
Is it worth buying a used ride?
Absolutely. Used cymbals often offer incredible value, especially higher-end models. Just be sure to inspect them carefully for cracks or excessive wear, and listen for any unwanted stick marks or damage.
