AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 22" Ride Cymbals for Beginner 2026

The top pick is Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride ($134). Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal leads the high end. 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

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

Top 10

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

  1. Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride

    22" HCS Ride · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Meinl HCS 22 in Ride is a solid choice for players looking for a bright, responsive ride without the premium price tag. It's perfect for beginners, students, or anyone needing a reliable, all-around ride for practice or smaller gigs where a complex, shimmering sound isn't essential. It's a workhorse, plain and simple.

    Pros

    • Bright, clear tone provides a defined wash for versatile playing
    • HCS bronze offers a responsive stick definition for a controlled feel
    • Lightweight construction reduces fatigue during extended playing sessions

    Cons

    • HCS bronze lacks the complexity and sustain of higher-end alloys
    • The stick stop isn't as pronounced as more premium ride cymbals
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$134 now
    $134€119 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal

    22" 900 Series Ride · Paiste

    26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Paiste 900 Series 22 in ride is a solid workhorse, offering a warm, versatile tone that's great for rock, pop, and funk. It’s a fantastic choice for drummers needing a reliable ride without the premium price tag of their Signature or R series offerings, and it'll hold up well to regular gigging.

    Pros

    • Warm, full-bodied tone ideal for diverse genres.
    • B8 bronze provides a balanced, responsive feel.
    • Dark finish highlights hammer marks, adding visual character.

    Cons

    • B8 bronze limits the complexity compared to higher bronze alloys.
    • Can be a bit loud for very quiet or intimate settings.
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$314 now
    $314€279 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal

    22" Classics Custom Dark Ride · Meinl

    19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Classics Custom Dark Ride from Meinl is a real workhorse. It’s got a fantastic, full sound that's perfect for drummers playing rock, metal, or anything needing a powerful, dark ride. The build quality is solid, making it a dependable choice for both stage and studio.

    Pros

    • The B12 bronze delivers a warm, complex wash with excellent sustain.
    • Dark-focused sound cuts through dense mixes without being overly bright.
    • Natural finish enhances the cymbal's organic tonal character and aging.

    Cons

    • The dark tonality might lack shimmering brilliance for lighter genres.
    • Relatively heavy weight can be fatiguing during extended playing sessions.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand79
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$314 now
    $314€279 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal

    22" 900 Color Sound Ride BK · Paiste

    26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This 900 Color Sound Ride BK is a solid all-rounder – a good, dependable ride that’ll serve up a warm, classic tone. It's a great choice for gigging drummers or studio players who want a reliable, visually striking cymbal without breaking the bank. It’s especially good for rock, pop, and lighter jazz applications.

    Pros

    • Warm, full tone suits a wide range of musical styles.
    • B8 bronze offers a good balance of durability and sound.
    • Defined ping provides clear stick definition and wash.

    Cons

    • B8 bronze isn’t as complex or nuanced as higher-grade alloys.
    • The black finish can be prone to smudging and requires occasional cleaning.
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$335 now
    $335€298 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal

    22" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl

    19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Classics Custom Pow. Ride is a beast – really cuts through a mix with its brilliant sheen and powerful wash. It’s ideal for rock, metal, and heavier genres where you need assertive cymbal presence. If you're looking for a ride that can really drive a band, this one delivers.

    Pros

    • Brilliant, shimmering wash provides a powerful, cutting ride sound
    • B20 bronze alloy delivers a full, resonant tone with excellent projection
    • Well-defined stick definition cuts through dense mixes effectively

    Cons

    • The high volume might be overwhelming in quieter, more nuanced settings
    • Lacks the complex, trashy character preferred by some jazz or fusion players
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand79
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$332 now
    $332€295 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal

    22" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste

    10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Paiste 900 Color Heavy Ride BK is a workhorse—a solid, reliable ride with a big, warm presence. It’s fantastic for rock, funk, and heavier genres where you need a substantial bell and a controlled wash without excessive complexity. A great choice for drummers needing a dependable, powerful ride that won't break the bank.

    Pros

    • Rich, warm tone characteristic of Paiste’s 900 series bronze.
    • Massive bell delivers a powerful, cutting projection ideal for larger kits.
    • Heavy weight provides sustain and a defined, controlled wash.

    Cons

    • The heavy weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
    • Sound might be too dark/warm for players seeking a bright, shimmering ride.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup63
    • Price61
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    ↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $314 · Aug 17$303 now
    $303€269 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Zultan 22" Aja Blaze Ride

    Zultan

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This handcrafted 22-inch ride hits hard but settles down quickly, making it great for both loud moments and subtle grooves. The B20 bronze gives it a rich tone that stands out without being harsh. It fits well in any kit looking for a dynamic ride that feels alive.

    Pros

    • Handmade using premium B20 bronze alloy
    • Delivers an explosive attack with soft sustain
    • Crafted in the Aja Blaze Series

    Cons

    • No specific weight information provided
    • Bell size is not listed in details
    55AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker84
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$219 now
    $219€195 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal

    22" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste

    10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This 900 Series Heavy Ride is a workhorse – built to last and deliver a big, solid sound. It’s ideal for rock, funk, and any genre needing a powerful, defined ride cymbal with a warm core, but those seeking incredibly complex shimmering tones might want to look elsewhere.

    Pros

    • Solid B8 bronze construction ensures durability and consistent tone.
    • The heavy weight provides a full, sustained wash and powerful bell response.
    • Dark finish emphasizes hammer marks, adding visual character and subtly dampening overtones.

    Cons

    • B8 bronze isn't the most complex alloy, limiting nuanced shimmering tones.
    • The heavy weight can be fatiguing for extended playing or smaller drummers.
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$314 now
    $314€279 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Zultan 22" F5 Ride

    Zultan

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Zultan F5 is a seriously focused ride – think crisp, articulate stick definition and a powerful bell. It’s a great choice for players needing cut in modern, tighter-sounding genres like funk, rock, or even some heavier styles. It’s not a wash monster, but what it *does* do, it does exceptionally well.

    Pros

    • Exceptional bell tone cuts through dense mixes effectively.
    • Hammered texture provides complex overtones and a unique shimmer.
    • B-20 bronze alloy delivers a balanced, musical response.

    Cons

    • The 'F5' sound is quite focused, limiting wash and softer dynamics.
    • Heavier weight might be tiring for extended playing sessions.
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker84
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$291 now
    $291€259 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal

    22" Classics Custom Dual Ride · Meinl

    11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Classics Custom Dual Ride is a real workhorse. It's got that classic Meinl warmth with a surprising amount of cut and a really responsive stick attack—perfect for rock, metal, and anything that needs to be heard. It’s a great all-around ride for players wanting a versatile, powerful sound.

    Pros

    • The B-12 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
    • Dual hammering creates a dynamic response, from wash to stick definition.
    • Dark/brilliant finish provides a balanced aesthetic and sonic character.

    Cons

    • The heavier weight might be tiring for extended playing sessions.
    • While versatile, it leans towards louder genres; quieter styles might be muted.
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand65
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$370 now
    $370€329 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
    Masterwork 22" Troy Traditional RideMasterwork
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  2. 12
    Zultan 22" Raw Jazz RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  3. 13
    Zultan 22" Raw RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  4. 14
    Zultan 22" Ride Dark MatterZultan
    Index 52↑ 8.7%
    52
    ↑ 8.7%$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  5. 15
    Zultan 22" Alaris RideZultan
    Index 57↓ 3.5%
    57
    ↓ 3.5%$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  6. 16
    Zultan 22" Z-Series RideZultan
    Index 57↓ 3.5%
    57
    ↓ 3.5%$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  7. 17
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$438€389
    $438€389Check ↗
  8. 18
    Zultan 22" Rock Beat Heavy RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  9. 19
    Zultan 22" Rock Beat Medium RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  10. 20
    Masterwork 22" Custom RideMasterwork
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  11. 21
    Zultan 22" Alaris light RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  12. 22
    Zultan 22" Q RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  13. 23
    Zultan 22" Caz RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  14. 24
    Zultan 22" Ride 25Zultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  15. 25
    Zultan 22" Mellow RideZultan
    Index 57↓ 3.2%
    57
    ↓ 3.2%$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  16. 26
    Meinl 22" Classics Cus. Dark Cr.-Ri.Meinl
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  17. 27
    Masterwork 22" Custom Rock RideMasterwork
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  18. 28
    Zultan 22" Dune RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$325€289
    $325€289Check ↗
  19. 29
    Zultan 22" Aeon Light RideZultan
    Index 56↓ 1.9%
    56
    ↓ 1.9%$348€309
    $348€309Check ↗
  20. 30
    Masterwork 22" Jazz Master RideMasterwork
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$325€289
    $325€289Check ↗
  21. 31
    Zultan 22" Aeon RideZultan
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$348€309
    $348€309Check ↗
  22. 32
    Istanbul Agop 22" Xist Brilliant Ride22" Xist Ride Brilliant · Istanbul Agop
    Index 65Stable
    65
    Stable$438€389
    $438€389Check ↗
  23. 33
    Zultan 22" Heritage RideZultan
    Index 57↓ 2.7%
    57
    ↓ 2.7%$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  24. 34
    Istanbul Mehmet 22" IMC Dark Ride Cymbal22" Ride IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 50Stable
    50
    Stable$381€339
    $381€339Check ↗
  25. 35
    Istanbul Agop 22" Xist Power RideIstanbul Agop
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  26. 36
    Istanbul Agop 22" Xist Dry Dark RideIstanbul Agop
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$437€388
    $437€388Check ↗
  27. 37
    Ufip 22" Bionic Series Heavy RideUfip
    Index 52↓ 2.6%
    52
    ↓ 2.6%$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  28. 38
    A. Zildjian 22" '60s Stamp Ride Cymbal22" K-Series Ride · Zildjian
    Index 83Stable
    83
    Stable$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  29. 39
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Trad. · Meinl
    Index 80↓ 1.6%
    80
    ↓ 1.6%$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  30. 40
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Big Apple Ride · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  31. 41
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark Ride · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  32. 42
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Flat · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  33. 43
    Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal22" Signature Full Ride · Paiste
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  34. 44
    Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Foundry Reserve R · Meinl · 2 finishes
    Index 78Stable
    78
    Stable$787€699
    $787€699Check ↗
  35. 45
    Sabian 22" Stratus Ride Cymbal22" Stratus Ride · Sabian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  36. 46
    Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal22" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  37. 47
    Zildjian 22" K Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" A-Custom Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$560€498
    $560€498Check ↗
  38. 48
    Sabian 22" Stratus Ride Cymbal22" Stratus Dry Ride · Sabian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$573€509
    $573€509Check ↗
  39. 49
    Zildjian 22" K Series Light Ride Cymbal22" K-Series Light Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  40. 50
    Zildjian 22" K Custom High Definition Ride Cymbal22" K-Custom High Definition · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$673€598
    $673€598Check ↗

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

For a beginner, a manageable wash is key. Too much and you'll be fighting to control the cymbal; too little and it sounds thin and lifeless. We're looking for a wash that's present but not overwhelming, allowing for clear stick definition.

Articulation

A clear, defined stick sound is essential for learning proper technique and developing dynamics. Muffled or overly complex articulation can mask sloppy playing and make it hard to hear what you're actually doing.

Sustain

While endless sustain isn't a necessity, a decent amount of sustain helps develop a sense of musicality. It allows notes to linger and blend with the rest of the kit, especially when playing quieter passages.

Playability

How easily can you control the cymbal? Does it feel responsive to subtle changes in stick height and angle? A playable cymbal encourages good technique and prevents frustration.

Weight & Feel

A lighter cymbal is generally easier to control for beginners. A heavier cymbal might require more force to get a decent sound, which can lead to fatigue and bad habits. The 'feel' is subjective, but a balanced weight is a good starting point.

Buying guide

So, you're starting out on the drums and thinking about getting a 22" ride? Smart move - it's a versatile size. But a beginner can get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. This isn't about the flashiest, most expensive rides; it's about finding something that'll let you develop good technique and actually sound decent while you're doing it, without breaking the bank.

Don't get caught up in bells and whistles. Beginner rides often cut corners - thinner bronze alloys, less hammering, simpler lathing. These aren't inherently bad, but they'll impact the sound and responsiveness.

Spending a little more for a slightly heavier, better-alloyed cymbal will pay off in the long run. Focus on playability and a balanced wash, and remember: you can always upgrade later.

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 B8 and B10 bronze?

B8 is a common alloy for entry-level cymbals - it's more affordable but tends to sound a bit 'brassy' and lacks the complexity of B10. B10 bronze is a higher-quality alloy that generally offers a warmer, more nuanced tone, but it comes at a higher price.

Should I get a pre-played or new cymbal?

Pre-played cymbals can be a good value, but you're getting someone else's 'patina'. New cymbals give you a clean slate and a consistent sound, which is helpful for learning. Just be aware pre-played cymbals might have marks and wear.

What's the deal with 'hammering'?

Hammering shapes the cymbal's surface, influencing its tone and responsiveness. More hammering generally leads to a more complex, nuanced sound, but it's not a magic bullet. Beginner-level cymbals often have less hammering to keep costs down.

I'm on a tight budget. What's the bare minimum I should spend?

You can find playable rides for $100 or less, but expect compromises. Look for reputable brands known for their value, and be prepared for a less refined sound. Don't go too cheap, though - a really bad cymbal will just hinder your progress.

Can I use a 22" ride in a rock band?

Absolutely, but you might need to adjust your playing. A 22" ride can cut through a rock mix, but it won't have the same explosive power as a larger, thinner ride. Focus on clear articulation and dynamic control to make it work.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 79Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride · $134€119
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