AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 22" Ride Cymbals for Advanced 2026

The top pick is Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal ($742). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 144 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 18, 2026

144models in this chart
9brands
$613median price
18price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 22" Ride Cymbals Showing: For Advanced · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal

    22" Signature Full Ride · Paiste

    27 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Signature Full Ride is a seriously musical cymbal – it’s got that Paiste quality you expect, but with a really approachable, warm tone that's not overly splashy. This is a fantastic all-rounder for players who want a big, expressive sound without sacrificing clarity; ideal for gigging musicians and studio work.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and sustain thanks to B20 bronze alloy
    • Full, warm fundamental avoids harshness common in brighter rides
    • Responsive, 'free-floating' feel facilitates nuanced playing

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for most drummers
    • Bright character might be overwhelming for those seeking a dark tone
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand88
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$742 now
    $742€659 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. 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
    78AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$787 now
    $787€699 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal

    22" K Constantinople Low Ride · Zildjian

    26 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
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$787 now
    $787€699 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal

    22" K Constantinople Thin Ride · Zildjian

    26 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.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$872 now
    $872€775 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Sabian 22" HHX Complex Medium Ride Cymbal

    22" HHX Complex Medium Ride · Sabian

    23 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.
    76AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand83
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker74
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$742 now
    $742€659 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal

    22" Masters Dark Ride · Paiste

    18 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.
    75AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$742 now
    $742€659 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride

    22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Flat · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Meinl Byzance Dark B.Apple Flat is a beautifully crafted ride, delivering a warm, controlled sound with incredible stick definition. It's perfect for jazz, funk, and softer rock styles where a nuanced, earthy tone is desired. The lack of a bell focuses the sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate and focused ride cymbal.

    Pros

    • Exceptional stick definition for crisp, articulate patterns.
    • Warm, earthy undertones provide a unique sonic signature.
    • Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a lively response.

    Cons

    • The darker tone might be too subdued for brighter genres like metal.
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$730 now
    $730€649 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin High Ride Cymbal

    22" K Constantinople High Ride · Zildjian

    17 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The K Constantinople High Ride is a truly special cymbal—it's got a gorgeous, mature tone that's perfect for jazz, fusion, and players seeking a sophisticated, nuanced ride sound. This is a premium-priced cymbal, but the quality and character are undeniable; it's a workhorse for discerning drummers.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and sustain thanks to B20 bronze composition
    • Defined stick definition across the entire cymbal surface
    • Warm, complex wash provides a beautiful, shimmering undertone

    Cons

    • High price point places it beyond many players' budgets
    • Relatively delicate construction requires careful handling and transport
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand76
    • Lineup63
    • Price54
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    ↓ 1.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $787 · Aug 17$775 now
    $775€689 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Istanbul Agop 22" 30th Anniversary Ride Cymbal Traditional

    22" 30th Anniversary Ride · Istanbul Agop

    17 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.
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand76
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker82
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$843 now
    $843€749 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Istanbul Agop 22" 30th Anniversary Ride Cymbal Traditional

    22" 30th Anniversary Med. Ride · Istanbul Agop

    17 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.
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand76
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker82
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$854 now
    $854€759 at Thomann · in stock
    Check 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.

  1. 11
    Sabian 22" HH Remastered Todd Sucherman Signature Sessions Ride Cymbal22" HH Sessions Ride · Sabian
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$843€749
    $843€749Check ↗
  2. 12
    Paiste 22" RUDE "The Reign" Dave Lombardo Signature Power Ride Cymbal22" Signature Power Ride · Paiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  3. 13
    Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal22" Masters Dark Crash/Ride · Paiste
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  4. 14
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark Ride · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  5. 15
    Paiste 22" Signature Reflector Nicko McBrain "Powerslave" Bell Ride…22" Reflector "The Powerslave" · Paiste
    Index 74↓ 1.5%
    74
    ↓ 1.5%$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  6. 16
    Sabian 22" Brian Fraiser Moore Signature BFM World Ride Cymbal22" HHX BFM World Ride Cymbal · Sabian
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  7. 17
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/Ride22" Byzance Sand Crash/Ride · Meinl
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  8. 18
    Paiste 22" Signature Danny Carey Monad Dry Heavy Ride Cymbal22" Signature "Monad" Ride · Paiste
    Index 71↓ 1.5%
    71
    ↓ 1.5%$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  9. 19
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Trad. · Meinl
    Index 80↓ 1.6%
    80
    ↓ 1.6%$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  10. 20
    Sabian 22" HHX Mike Portnoy Max Ride Cymbal22" HHX MAX Ride · Sabian
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  11. 21
    Sabian 22" HHX Complex Big Cup Ride Cymbal22" HHX Complex Big Cup Ride · Sabian
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$764€679
    $764€679Check ↗
  12. 22
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Ham. Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$715€635
    $715€635Check ↗
  13. 23
    Paiste 22" Masters Series Swish Cymbal22" Masters Swish Cymbal · Paiste
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  14. 24
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Spectrum RideMeinl
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  15. 25
    Sabian 22" HHX Tempest CymbalSabian
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  16. 26
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Dry Th. Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  17. 27
    Meinl 22" Anika Nilles Lunar RideMeinl
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$775€689
    $775€689Check ↗
  18. 28
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/RideMeinl
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  19. 29
    Paiste 22" Masters Dark FlatridePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  20. 30
    Paiste 22" Traditional Light RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$820€729
    $820€729Check ↗
  21. 31
    Paiste 22" 602 Mod. Essentials RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$820€729
    $820€729Check ↗
  22. 32
    Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK2Paiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$832€739
    $832€739Check ↗
  23. 33
    Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK1Paiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$832€739
    $832€739Check ↗
  24. 34
    Zildjian 22" K Const. Renaissance RideZildjian
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$843€749
    $843€749Check ↗
  25. 35
    Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Med. RideZildjian
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$922€819
    $922€819Check ↗
  26. 36
    Zildjian 22" Kerope Medium Low RideZildjian
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$1,518€1,349
    $1,518€1,349Check ↗
  27. 37
    Meinl 22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light Ride22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light · Meinl
    Index 70↓ 1.6%
    70
    ↓ 1.6%$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  28. 38
    Sabian 22" HHX Omni Brilliant/NaturalSabian
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  29. 39
    Meinl 22" Byzance Brilliant Heavy Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Heavy H. Ride · Meinl
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  30. 40
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Ride Cymbal22" Agop Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$692€615
    $692€615Check ↗
  31. 41
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Mel Lewis Ride22" Mel Lewis Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  32. 42
    Paiste 22" Signature Mellow Ride Cymbal22" Signature Mellow Ride · Paiste
    Index 67Stable
    67
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  33. 43
    Paiste 22" Masters Thin RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  34. 44
    Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Symmetry Ride22" Byzance Symmetry Ride · Meinl
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  35. 45
    Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Tradit. Light Ride · Meinl
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  36. 46
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Big Apple Ride · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  37. 47
    Sabian 22" HHX Complex Thin Ride Cymbal22" HHX Complex Thin Ride · Sabian
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  38. 48
    Istanbul Agop 22" Cindy Blackman OM Signature Ride Cymbal22" Cindy Blackman OM Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$692€615
    $692€615Check ↗
  39. 49
    Meinl 22" Byzance Equilibrium RideMeinl
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  40. 50
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Mantra Ride22" Mantra Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗

22" Ride Cymbals by the numbers

Measured across all 146 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $613 — half of all 22" ride cymbals here cost less.

1
7
40
97
1
<$150$150–300$300–500$500–1k$1k+
Size22"

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.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 79Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal · $742€659
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