AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 22" Ride Cymbals for Professional 2026

The top pick is Zildjian 22" Kerope Medium Low Ride ($1,518). A. Zildjian 22" '60s Stamp Ride Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $652. 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 Professional · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

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

  1. Zildjian 22" Kerope Medium Low Ride

    Zildjian

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Kerope Low Ride is a gorgeous, vintage-voiced ride that delivers a deep, dark wash with surprising stick definition. It’s perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, warm sound – think jazz, neo-soul, or anything needing a mellow, expressive ride. This is a serious upgrade for experienced drummers who prioritize tonal depth.

    Pros

    • Deep, complex wash provides a warm, enveloping sonic texture.
    • The traditional finish yields a nuanced, vintage-inspired character.
    • Medium-heavy weight offers excellent stick definition and control.

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, placing it outside reach for many drummers.
    • The 'low' designation might be too dark for brighter musical contexts.
    55AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,518 now
    $1,518€1,349 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. 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 ↗

  3. 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 ↗

  4. Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal

    22" Byzance Foundry Reserve LR · Meinl

    10 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Size22"

    The Foundry Reserve LR is a beautifully crafted ride, offering a gorgeous, complex wash with a warm, dark undertone. It’s a real player’s cymbal – responsive and expressive. Ideal for jazz, fusion, and anyone seeking a sophisticated, nuanced ride sound.

    Pros

    • Exceptional warmth and complexity due to extensive hammering
    • B20 bronze delivers a dark, shimmering sustain
    • Versatile enough for jazz, fusion, and even softer rock styles

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for most drummers
    • The lighter weight might feel unstable for aggressive players
    78AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$820 now
    $820€729 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. 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 ↗

  6. Sabian 22" HH Remastered Todd Sucherman Signature Sessions Ride Cymbal

    22" HH Sessions Ride · Sabian

    18 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
    Index
    • Demand77
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker74
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$843 now
    $843€749 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. 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 ↗

  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. Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Med. Ride

    Zildjian

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This K Constantinople is a serious ride for players who appreciate a refined, articulate sound. It’s perfect for jazz, orchestral, or any genre where you need a controlled, musical shimmer without excessive wash – a real step up from your entry-level cymbals.

    Pros

    • Exceptional articulation for clean, defined stick definition.
    • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex, shimmering wash.
    • Hammered areas enhance responsiveness and subtle tonal variations.

    Cons

    • The dry character might lack sustain for some players’ preferences.
    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for most drummers.
    55AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker77
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$922 now
    $922€819 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. 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 ↗

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" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Trad. · Meinl
    Index 80↓ 1.6%
    80
    ↓ 1.6%$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  2. 12
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Big Apple Ride · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  3. 13
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark Ride · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  4. 14
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Flat · Meinl
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  5. 15
    Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal22" Signature Full Ride · Paiste
    Index 79Stable
    79
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  6. 16
    Zildjian 22" K Custom High Definition Ride Cymbal22" K-Custom High Definition · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$673€598
    $673€598Check ↗
  7. 17
    Zildjian 22" K Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" K-Custom Dark Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$673€598
    $673€598Check ↗
  8. 18
    Zildjian 22" K Const. Renaissance RideZildjian
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$843€749
    $843€749Check ↗
  9. 19
    Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK2Paiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$832€739
    $832€739Check ↗
  10. 20
    Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK1Paiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$832€739
    $832€739Check ↗
  11. 21
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/RideMeinl
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  12. 22
    Paiste 22" Masters Series Swish Cymbal22" Masters Swish Cymbal · Paiste
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  13. 23
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/Ride22" Byzance Sand Crash/Ride · Meinl
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  14. 24
    Sabian 22" HHX Complex Medium Ride Cymbal22" HHX Complex Medium Ride · Sabian
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  15. 25
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Ride Cymbal22" Agop Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$692€615
    $692€615Check ↗
  16. 26
    Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal22" Masters Dark Crash/Ride · Paiste
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  17. 27
    Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal22" Masters Dark Ride · Paiste
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  18. 28
    Paiste 22" Traditional Light RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$820€729
    $820€729Check ↗
  19. 29
    Paiste 22" 602 Mod. Essentials RidePaiste
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$820€729
    $820€729Check ↗
  20. 30
    Sabian 22" HHX Complex Big Cup Ride Cymbal22" HHX Complex Big Cup Ride · Sabian
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$764€679
    $764€679Check ↗
  21. 31
    Zildjian 22" K Series Light Ride Cymbal22" K-Series Light Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  22. 32
    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 ↗
  23. 33
    Paiste 22" Signature Reflector Nicko McBrain "Powerslave" Bell Ride…22" Signature Blue Bell Ride · Paiste
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  24. 34
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Dry Th. Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  25. 35
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Ham. Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$715€635
    $715€635Check ↗
  26. 36
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Mel Lewis Ride22" Mel Lewis Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  27. 37
    Paiste 22" RUDE "The Reign" Dave Lombardo Signature Power Ride Cymbal22" Signature Power Ride · Paiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  28. 38
    Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Monophonic Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Jazz Monophonic R. · Meinl
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  29. 39
    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 ↗
  30. 40
    Zildjian 22" K Series Dark Medium Ride Cymbal22" K-Series Dark Medium Ride · Zildjian
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$640€569
    $640€569Check ↗
  31. 41
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Medium Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  32. 42
    Meinl 22" Byzance Traditional Polyphonic Ride22" Byzance Polyphonic Ride · Meinl
    Index 70↓ 4.8%
    70
    ↓ 4.8%$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  33. 43
    Istanbul Agop 22" Cindy Blackman OM Signature Ride Cymbal22" Cindy Blackman OM Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$692€615
    $692€615Check ↗
  34. 44
    Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Tradit. Light Ride · Meinl
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  35. 45
    Meinl 22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light Ride22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light · Meinl
    Index 70↓ 1.6%
    70
    ↓ 1.6%$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  36. 46
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Spectrum RideMeinl
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  37. 47
    Meinl 22" Anika Nilles Lunar RideMeinl
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$775€689
    $775€689Check ↗
  38. 48
    Sabian 22" HHX Legacy Heavy Ride Cymbal22" HHX Legacy Ride · Sabian
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  39. 49
    Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Club RideMeinl
    Index 69↓ 4.8%
    69
    ↓ 4.8%$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  40. 50
    Meinl 22" Byzance Brilliant Heavy Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Heavy H. Ride · Meinl
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗

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

A professional ride needs to balance a full, shimmering wash with clear, articulate stick definition. Too much wash and it gets muddy; too much stick and it's brittle. The ideal is a responsive wash that doesn't swallow the stick sound.

Bell Tone & Response

The bell is crucial for accents and swells. We're looking for a bell that's responsive to subtle changes in dynamics, offering a range from a warm, controlled tone to a cutting, powerful ping. A sluggish or overly harsh bell is a dealbreaker.

Sustain & Decay

Sustain isn't just about how long the cymbal rings; it's about how it decays. A good ride's sustain should be musical, not just a long, ringing drone. The decay should be controlled and articulate, allowing for complex patterns.

Weight & Feel

Weight directly impacts playability. Lighter rides are more responsive and easier to control for subtle nuances, while heavier rides offer more power and projection. The 'feel' encompasses the cymbal's action - how it flexes and vibrates under the stick - which is critical for developing dynamics.

Complexity & Articulation

Pros need cymbals that can handle intricate patterns and dynamic shifts. We're evaluating how well each ride responds to ghost notes, flams, and other nuanced techniques - does it articulate clearly or become a blurry mess?

Buying guide

Alright, let's talk 22" rides. They're the sweet spot for a lot of pros - big enough to get a wash, but manageable enough to articulate cleanly. You're not chasing a crash, you're looking for something that'll breathe with your playing, cut through a dense mix, and still be comfortable in a variety of genres. Finding the right one isn't just about sound; it's about feel, response, and how it works with you.

Don't fall for the hype - a big name doesn't always equal a great ride. Pay attention to the hammering and lathing; inconsistent hammering leads to uneven response and a muddy tone. Budget cymbals often cut corners on these details, resulting in a clangy, lifeless sound.

Spending a bit more on a hand-hammered or meticulously lathed ride is almost always worth it - you're buying into the nuance, not just the brand.

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?

A 22" offers more wash and projection, which is great for cutting through a louder band or recording. A 20" is more articulate and controllable, better suited for quieter genres or more intricate playing.

Are B22 rides really worth the extra money?

Generally, yes. B22s are often hand-hammered and feature more complex lathing patterns, leading to a more nuanced and responsive sound. However, there are some decent entry-level options if you're on a tight budget.

I play mostly rock - should I go for a heavier or lighter ride?

For rock, a medium-heavy ride is usually a good bet. You need enough weight to cut through the guitars and bass, but not so much that it becomes unwieldy. A good bell tone is essential for accents.

What does 'fully lathed' mean and why is it important?

Fully lathed means the entire cymbal surface is evenly shaped, which contributes to consistent tone and response. Partially lathed cymbals can have uneven spots and unpredictable behavior.

How can I tell if a ride is too bright?

An overly bright ride sounds harsh and ice-picky, lacking warmth and body. It will tend to dominate the mix and be fatiguing to play. Look for a ride with a more balanced tonal spectrum - a good low-end thump and a controlled high-end.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 55Zildjian 22" Kerope Medium Low Ride · $1,518€1,349
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