AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 22" Ride Cymbals for Intermediate 2026

The top pick is A. Zildjian 22" '60s Stamp Ride Cymbal ($652). Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $438. 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 Intermediate · clear
Price
Skill level
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Top 10

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

  1. A. Zildjian 22" '60s Stamp Ride Cymbal

    22" K-Series Ride · Zildjian

    44 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Zildjian K Custom 22in Ride is a classic for a reason. It’s a beautifully voiced cymbal that excels in jazz, fusion, and mellow rock settings – think Elvin Jones' vibe. If you're seeking that warm, shimmering ride sound without going totally over the top, this is a fantastic choice.

    Pros

    • Warm, complex wash ideal for jazz and fusion styles.
    • Hand-hammered lathing creates a shimmering, responsive feel.
    • B20 bronze alloy delivers a rich, dark, and musical tone.

    Cons

    • Can be too dark and mellow for heavier rock or metal applications.
    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
    83AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$652 now
    $652€579 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride

    22" Byzance Big Apple Ride · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Meinl Big Apple Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal, perfectly suited for jazz, traditional, and lighter styles where nuanced articulation and a warm wash are essential. The smaller bell and thinner profile offer a delicate response that's a real treat for sensitive players—it's not a powerhouse, but a refined tool for musical expression.

    Pros

    • Exceptional stick definition for intricate jazz patterns and subtle nuances.
    • The 'Big Apple' hammering creates a warm, complex overtone profile.
    • Hand-hammered B20 bronze construction ensures consistent quality and resonance.

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
    • Its focused sound may lack versatility for heavier musical genres.
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$674 now
    $674€599 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Sabian 22" Stratus Ride Cymbal

    22" Stratus Ride · Sabian

    25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Stratus is a really solid all-around ride – it’s got a warm, musical tone that works well across a bunch of genres. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians who need a reliable ride that can also handle a crash or two without sounding brittle. A good balance of affordability and quality.

    Pros

    • Warm, complex fundamental avoids harshness common in thinner rides.
    • Hammering provides nuanced stick definition and shimmering wash.
    • B-20 bronze offers a balanced, musical tone – not too dark, not too bright.

    Cons

    • The medium-light weight might not satisfy players seeking a heavier, more trashy ride.
    • While versatile, it’s not a dedicated crash; prolonged crashing will degrade the cymbal’s character.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand86
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker74
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$517 now
    $517€459 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

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

    22" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian

    26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Zildjian A-Series 22' Medium Ride is a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a refined, articulate sound. It's incredibly responsive and projects beautifully, making it ideal for jazz, fusion, and contemporary styles where precise cymbal work is key. This is a serious upgrade for intermediate to advanced players.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and stick definition for precise patterns.
    • Brilliantly lathed top provides a responsive, articulate wash.
    • Well-balanced weight contributes to comfortable, controlled playing.

    Cons

    • The clean sound might lack warmth for heavier genres.
    • A-Series cymbals are premium-priced, a significant investment.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$517 now
    $517€459 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Zildjian 22" K Custom Dark Ride Cymbal

    22" A-Custom Ride · Zildjian

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Zildjian A-Custom 22 in Ride is a workhorse for modern drummers needing a bright, responsive sound. It cuts through the mix beautifully, especially in rock, pop, and fusion settings – perfect if you want a contemporary ride with plenty of shimmer without going overboard. It’s a serious upgrade for those moving beyond entry-level cymbals.

    Pros

    • Bright, shimmering wash with a defined stick articulation.
    • Thin profile allows for responsive, nuanced playing.
    • A-Custom alloy offers a balanced, modern tone.

    Cons

    • Can be a bit too bright for very dark or vintage-focused sounds.
    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$560 now
    $560€498 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Sabian 22" Stratus Ride Cymbal

    22" Stratus Dry Ride · Sabian

    25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This light 22-inch ride hits hard with a dry stick sound but opens up fast for crashes. The B20 bronze gives it a warm, dark tone thanks to the hammered bell. It's a solid choice for players who want clear articulation without a heavy profile.

    Pros

    • Lightweight profile opens easily for crashing
    • B20 bronze offers warm dark tone
    • Hammered bell provides clear articulation

    Cons

    • No bell size measurement provided in text
    • Lack of specific weight in grams or ounces
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand86
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker74
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$573 now
    $573€509 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Zildjian 22" K Series Light Ride Cymbal

    22" K-Series Light Ride · Zildjian

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Zildjian K-Series Light Ride is a seriously beautiful cymbal. It offers a lush, dark wash with surprising clarity for stickwork, making it ideal for players seeking a sophisticated and expressive ride sound – particularly those in jazz, rock, or genres that benefit from a more nuanced ride. It's a top-tier choice for the discerning drummer.

    Pros

    • Exceptional wash with a dark, shimmering complexity.
    • Clear stick definition despite the darker overall tone.
    • Well-latted construction ensures consistent cymbal response.

    Cons

    • Can be a bit too dark for brighter musical contexts.
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$652 now
    $652€579 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Zildjian 22" K Custom High Definition Ride Cymbal

    22" K-Custom High Definition · Zildjian

    25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The K-Custom High Definition ride is a modern marvel—it cuts through a mix with incredible clarity and definition. Terri Lyne Carrington's input shines through, making it responsive and musical for a wide range of genres. This ride is ideal for drummers needing a precise, articulate ride cymbal for both acoustic and electronic setups.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and definition across the cymbal surface
    • B20 bronze alloy provides a warm, complex sonic palette
    • Designed with Terri Lyne Carrington, ensuring a modern, musical response

    Cons

    • The 'dryness' may not suit players seeking a washier, more traditional ride
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand86
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$673 now
    $673€598 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Zildjian 22" K Custom Dark Ride Cymbal

    22" K-Custom Dark Ride · Zildjian

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Zildjian K-Custom Dark Ride is a serious contender if you're after a sophisticated, musical ride cymbal. It's a workhorse for genres like jazz, fusion, and anything needing a warm, nuanced shimmer – think Carter Beauford and Alex Acuna. This is a top-tier choice for players prioritizing feel and expressiveness over sheer volume.

    Pros

    • Warm, complex wash creates a beautifully organic feel.
    • The hammering produces a dark, smoky character without being overly dry.
    • Excellent stick definition for clear articulation and ghost notes.

    Cons

    • Can be somewhat quiet, needing a louder kit to truly shine.
    • The dark tonality might not suit brighter, more aggressive musical styles.
    77AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$673 now
    $673€598 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal

    22" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl

    16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Pure Alloy ride from Meinl is a real departure from the usual bronze sounds – it’s bright and lively, with a surprisingly good crash. It’s a fantastic option for rock, pop, and modern styles where you want a cutting, articulate ride that’s still versatile enough to handle some lighter cymbal work. A great choice for drummers looking for a unique, modern sound.

    Pros

    • Bright, shimmering wash with a clear, defined stick articulation.
    • The Pure Alloy blend offers a unique tonal character, avoiding typical bronze sounds.
    • Mechanical hammering creates complex overtones and a responsive feel.

    Cons

    • The Pure Alloy blend might lack the warmth preferred by some jazz players.
    • Can be slightly brittle sounding when pushed aggressively; not ideal for heavy hitters.
    75AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand74
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$438 now
    $438€389 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
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy Custom Ride · Meinl
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$500€444
    $500€444Check ↗
  2. 12
    Zildjian 22" K Series Dark Medium Ride Cymbal22" K-Series Dark Medium Ride · Zildjian
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$640€569
    $640€569Check ↗
  3. 13
    Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Series Dark Ride Cymbal22" Traditional Dark Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 74Stable
    74
    Stable$577€513
    $577€513Check ↗
  4. 14
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy E.Hammered C-R · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$500€444
    $500€444Check ↗
  5. 15
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  6. 16
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Medium Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  7. 17
    Paiste 22" Signature Reflector Nicko McBrain "Powerslave" Bell Ride…22" Signature Blue Bell Ride · Paiste
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  8. 18
    Paiste 22" 2002 Black Big Beat CymbalPaiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  9. 19
    Paiste 22" Giant Beat Multi-Functional Cymbal22" Giant Beat Multi Ride · Paiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$494€439
    $494€439Check ↗
  10. 20
    Paiste 22" RUDE "The Reign" Dave Lombardo Signature Power Ride Cymbal22" Rude Power Ride The Reign · Paiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$494€439
    $494€439Check ↗
  11. 21
    Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Series Crash/Ride Cymbal22" Traditional Crash Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$595€529
    $595€529Check ↗
  12. 22
    Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Monophonic Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Jazz Monophonic R. · Meinl
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  13. 23
    Meinl 22" Byzance Traditional Polyphonic Ride22" Byzance Polyphonic Ride · Meinl
    Index 70↓ 4.8%
    70
    ↓ 4.8%$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  14. 24
    Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Original Ride Cymbal22" Traditional Original Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$573€509
    $573€509Check ↗
  15. 25
    Sabian 22" HHX Legacy Heavy Ride Cymbal22" HHX Legacy Ride · Sabian
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  16. 26
    Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Club RideMeinl
    Index 69↓ 4.8%
    69
    ↓ 4.8%$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  17. 27
    Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Medium-Thin Ride22" Byzance Medium Thin Ride · Meinl
    Index 68↓ 3.3%
    68
    ↓ 3.3%$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  18. 28
    Istanbul Agop 22" Xist Brilliant Ride22" Xist Ride Brilliant · Istanbul Agop
    Index 65Stable
    65
    Stable$438€389
    $438€389Check ↗
  19. 29
    Meinl 22" Byzance Big Apple Dark Tradition Light Ride Cymbal22" Byz. Dark B.Apple Tr.Light · Meinl
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  20. 30
    Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal22" 900 Color Sound Ride BK · Paiste
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$335€298
    $335€298Check ↗
  21. 31
    Zildjian 22" A Custom Ping Ride Cymbal22" A-Series Ping Ride · Zildjian
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  22. 32
    Sabian 22" AAX Heavy Ride Cymbal22" AAX Heavy Ride · Sabian
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$625€555
    $625€555Check ↗
  23. 33
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Flat Ride22" Agop Signature Flat Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  24. 34
    Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$332€295
    $332€295Check ↗
  25. 35
    Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal22" Classics Custom Dual Ride · Meinl
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$370€329
    $370€329Check ↗
  26. 36
    Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal22" 900 Series Ride · Paiste
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  27. 37
    Istanbul Mehmet 22" Nostalgia 50s Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets22" Nostalgia 50's Ride · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$613€545
    $613€545Check ↗
  28. 38
    Istanbul Mehmet 22" MC Jazz Ride Cymbal22" Ride MC Jazz Series · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 59↓ 4.2%
    59
    ↓ 4.2%$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  29. 39
    Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" Classics Custom Dark Ride · Meinl
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  30. 40
    Meinl Pure Alloy 22" Medium RideMeinl
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$460€409
    $460€409Check ↗
  31. 41
    Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Jazz Med. RideIstanbul Agop
    Index 57↓ 3.8%
    57
    ↓ 3.8%$573€509
    $573€509Check ↗
  32. 42
    Istanbul Mehmet 22" Nostalgia 70s Ride Cymbal22" Nostalgia 70's Ride · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$613€545
    $613€545Check ↗
  33. 43
    Paiste 2002 Classic 22" Power RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  34. 44
    Paiste 2002 Classic 22" Heavy RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$494€439
    $494€439Check ↗
  35. 45
    Paiste 2002 Classic 22"RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$494€439
    $494€439Check ↗
  36. 46
    Zildjian 22" Z Custom Ride brilliantZildjian
    Index 56↓ 2.2%
    56
    ↓ 2.2%$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  37. 47
    Istanbul Mehmet 22" Mehmet Legend Sizzle RideIstanbul Mehmet
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$562€499
    $562€499Check ↗
  38. 48
    Istanbul Mehmet 22" Sahra RideIstanbul Mehmet
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$562€499
    $562€499Check ↗
  39. 49
    Istanbul Mehmet 22" Black Sea 1623 RideIstanbul Mehmet
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$590€524
    $590€524Check ↗
  40. 50
    Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Jazz RideIstanbul Agop
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$595€529
    $595€529Check ↗

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 vs. Stick Definition

Intermediate players need a ride that can lay down a wash for those atmospheric moments, but still clearly articulate individual strokes. Too much wash and it's muddy; too much stick definition and it sounds brittle. Finding that balance is key.

Sustain & Decay

A 22" should have enough sustain to fill out the sound, but not so much it gets lost in a dense mix. Look for a decay that allows for some ghost notes and subtle rhythmic variations without just ringing forever.

Bell Tone & Fulcrum Response

The bell is often the first thing that cuts through. You want a bell that's responsive and projects without being harsh or overly dry. The fulcrum (the point where the cymbal thins out) needs to offer a different tonal color when you hit it directly.

Overall Complexity & Articulation

As an intermediate player, you're starting to develop more nuanced playing styles. The cymbal should respond to dynamics - quiet, controlled playing shouldn't sound choked, and loud accents should have impact without being overwhelming.

Weight & Feel

This affects playability immensely. A heavier cymbal will require more force to get a good sound, while a lighter one might feel flimsy. Find a weight that matches your playing style and comfort level - don't force it.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're past the beginner stage and looking to level up your ride cymbal game. A 22" ride is a sweet spot - big enough to have some meat and sustain, but not so massive you're fighting it in smaller venues or a home studio. But picking the right one? That's where things get interesting. Let's cut through the noise and find something that'll actually inspire you to play.

Don't chase the shiny marketing hype. Entry-level cymbals often cut corners on alloy and lathing, which translates to a lifeless, brittle sound. It's usually worth spending a bit more for a cymbal with better hand hammering and a more responsive feel.

Listen for that 'ping' - a clean, musical bell tone is a good sign. And remember, a great cymbal isn't just about the sound; it's about how it feels under your sticks.

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 B12 bronze?

B8 is the more common, budget-friendly alloy. B12 generally offers more complexity and a richer, more nuanced sound, but it's also pricier. The difference is noticeable, but not always worth the extra cost for every player.

I'm recording - should I prioritize a bright or dark sound?

It depends on your kit and the genre. A darker, more washy ride can sit well in rock or blues, while a brighter, more articulate ride might be better for funk or pop. Experiment! Mics play a huge role too.

Can I get a good 22" ride for under $200?

Absolutely, but temper your expectations. You'll likely be making some compromises - possibly in terms of finish, complexity, or overall durability. Brands like Meinl HCS and Zildjian L80 are solid starting points.

What does 'hammered' really mean?

Hand hammering introduces subtle irregularities in the cymbal's surface, which helps break up unwanted overtones and creates a more complex, musical sound. Machine hammering is more consistent, but can sound a bit sterile.

I'm struggling to get a good sound - is it the cymbal or my technique?

It's probably both. Cymbal selection is important, but technique is huge. Make sure you're hitting the cymbal in the right spot, varying your stick angle, and using proper dynamics. A lesson or two with a good teacher can work wonders.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 83A. Zildjian 22" '60s Stamp Ride Cymbal · $652€579
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