AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Meinl 22" Ride Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride ($702). Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride gives you the most for the money at $133. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 34 models, 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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Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride
22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Trad. · Meinl
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This is a 22-inch Meinl Byzance ride cymbal made from hand-hammered B20 bronze. Its small bell, steep profile and non-turned top give you stick definition, while the turned-down underside opens up the crashes. It suits you if you want a ride that focuses on stick work and has a dark, traditional feel.
Pros
- Hand-hammered B20 bronze construction gives this ride a crafted feel
- Small bell with a steep profile gives clear stick definition
- Non-turned top keeps the ride surface focused for stick work
79AudioFu
Index↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$713 · Aug 17$702 now$702€629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size22"
This Meinl 22-inch ride is part of the HCS Series and is made from an MS63 blend. You get a clear cymbal top and a defined stick stop, so your ride pattern has a clear feel. It suits you if you want a 22-inch ride with a warm sound and a stick stop you can count on.
Pros
- Made from MS63 blend, a bronze alloy used across Meinl's HCS line
- HCS Series cymbal with a 22-inch diameter
- Clear cymbal top (bell) gives a clean, focused top layer
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$133 now$133€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride
22" Byzance Big Apple Ride · Meinl
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This is a 22 inch ride made especially for traditional jazz drumming. Its small bell and large curve give it an open, pearly sound, with clear stick definition and sound that rings out. If you play jazz and want a ride with a deep basic tone and nice overtones, you should take a close look at this one.
Pros
- Handmade in Turkey, then finished and revised by Meinl
- Large cymbal curvature paired with a small bell
- Open, pearly sound with clear stick definition and open decay
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$669 now$669€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride
22" Byzance Dark Ride · Meinl
23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
You get a 22 inch ride cymbal made of B20 bronze and hand hammered. It has a dark, deep sound with a very clear ping on top. It suits you if you want a deep ride sound that still gives a clear ping.
Pros
- Hand hammered construction gives each cymbal a hand-shaped, individual feel
- Made from B20 bronze, a traditional cymbal alloy
- Dark, deep sound character with a very clear ping
Cons
- Its dark, deep character may not suit ride patterns that need a bright, cutting sound
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$713 now$713€639 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 ↗ -
Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal
22" Pure Alloy Custom Ride · Meinl
17 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This is a 22 inch ride cymbal made in Germany with a smoke bronze finish. It has a warm, slightly washed out tone with short sustain, so the notes fade quickly. Its wide dynamic range lets you play soft or loud, so it suits you if you want a ride that responds to a range of playing.
Pros
- Made in Germany, the cymbal is built in a country known for careful craftsmanship
- Pure Alloy construction means the cymbal is made from one bronze alloy throughout
- Smoke bronze finish gives the cymbal a darker look
Cons
- Its warm, slightly washed out tone with short sustain may not suit every style
77AudioFu
Index↓ 3.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$496 · Aug 17$479 now$479€429 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 ↗ -
Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal
22" Classics Custom Dark Ride · Meinl
16 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.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$312 now$312€279 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal
22" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl
16 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
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$329 now$329€295 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal
22" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl
17 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$434 now$434€389 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 34 22" ride cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/RideMeinl75Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 12
Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/Ride22" Byzance Sand Crash/Ride · Meinl75Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 13
Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy E.Hammered C-R · Meinl73Stable$496€444$496€444Check ↗
- 14
Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride · Meinl73Stable$501€449$501€449Check ↗
- 15
Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Medium Ride · Meinl73Stable$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 16
Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Dry Th. Ride · Meinl73Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 17
Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Ham. Ride · Meinl73Stable$709€635$709€635Check ↗
- 18
Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal22" Classics Custom Dual Ride · Meinl72Stable$367€329$367€329Check ↗
- 19
Meinl 22" Byzance Traditional Polyphonic Ride22" Byzance Polyphonic Ride · Meinl72↓ 8.0%$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 20
Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Monophonic Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Jazz Monophonic R. · Meinl71Stable$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 21
Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Spectrum RideMeinl71Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 22
Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Tradit. Light Ride · Meinl70Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 23
Meinl 22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light Ride22" Byzance Vintage Pure Light · Meinl70↓ 1.6%$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 24
Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Club RideMeinl69↓ 4.8%$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 25
Meinl 22" Byzance Brilliant Heavy Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Byzance Heavy H. Ride · Meinl69Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 26
Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Medium-Thin Ride22" Byzance Medium Thin Ride · Meinl68↓ 3.3%$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 27
Meinl 22" Byzance Big Apple Dark Tradition Light Ride Cymbal22" Byz. Dark B.Apple Tr.Light · Meinl65Stable$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 28
Meinl 22" Byzance Jazz Symmetry Ride22" Byzance Symmetry Ride · Meinl64Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 29
Meinl 22" Classics Cus. Dark Cr.-Ri.Meinl57Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 30
Meinl Pure Alloy 22" Medium RideMeinl57Stable$457€409$457€409Check ↗
- 31
Meinl 22" Byzance Sand RideMeinl57Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 32
Meinl 22" Byz. Sizzle Jazz Ch. RideMeinl57Stable$702€629$702€629Check ↗
- 33
Meinl 22" Byzance Equilibrium RideMeinl57Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 34
Meinl 22" Anika Nilles Lunar RideMeinl57Stable$769€689$769€689Check ↗
22" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 146 models we track, not a sample.
Median $691 — half of all 22" ride cymbals here cost less.
median of 146 models · 22"–22"
How to choose the best 22" ride cymbals
Sound Character
Meinl's signature is often a brighter, more complex sound than some of their competitors. You'll find a lot of shimmering overtones and a defined stick attack - it's not a dark, washy ride, but it's rarely harsh either. It's a controlled complexity, which is great for cutting through a dense mix.
Hammering & Lathing
Meinl's hammering patterns are a big part of their sound. They use a range of techniques - from heavy hammering for a drier tone to light lathing for more sustain and shimmer. Pay attention to the descriptions; they aren't just buzzwords.
Bell Tone
The bell on a Meinl 22" ride is usually quite responsive, offering a clear, defined 'ping' that can add a lot of character. Some models have a more focused bell, while others have a wider, more spread-out tone - listen for what works with your playing style.
Weight & Feel
Meinl offers a range of weights, from lighter, more responsive models to heavier, more powerful ones. A lighter ride will be easier to control for subtle dynamics, while a heavier ride will have more projection and sustain - consider what you need for your genre.
Manufacturing Quality
Meinl's Turkish manufacturing is generally very consistent. You're less likely to get a dud compared to some smaller brands. They take pride in their craftsmanship, which shows in the cymbal's overall feel and responsiveness.
Buying guide
So, you're in the market for a 22" ride? Smart move - it's a sweet spot for versatility. A lot of players end up here, wanting something that cuts through a rock band but still has enough wash for jazz or chill vibes. Meinl has a long history of nailing this balance, and their 22" rides are consistently solid choices, but knowing which one suits your style takes a little digging.
Don't chase the hype. A 22" Meinl isn't a magic bullet; it's a tool. Listen to sound samples, but better yet, try them out in person if possible.
Cheaper Meinl models might use thinner bronze alloys, which can affect sustain and responsiveness - you'll feel it. Spending a little more gets you more consistent hammering and a more refined sound.
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 35 22" ride cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 146 in the category). 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 Byzance and a Byzance Vintage Meinl ride?
Byzance is their contemporary line, brighter and more complex. Byzance Vintage is hammered to create a more vintage, drier, and warmer tone - think classic jazz sounds. It's a trade-off between shimmer and warmth.
Are Meinl cymbals too bright for heavier music?
It depends on the specific model. Some of their darker Byzance Vintage or Tradition series rides can work well, but you'll want to listen carefully and consider the overall kit tone. Too much brightness can sound brittle.
Can I use a Meinl 22" ride in a recording studio?
Absolutely. Their clarity and responsiveness make them great for capturing detailed cymbal sounds. Just be mindful of mic placement to control any unwanted overtones.
I'm a beginner drummer. Which Meinl 22" ride should I get?
Start with something in the middle of their range - the Byzance or Byzance Brilliant series are good starting points. Don't go for the absolute cheapest models; the feel and sound won't inspire you.
How do I care for my Meinl ride?
Regular cleaning with a cymbal cleaner is essential. Rotate the cymbal regularly to ensure even wear, and avoid hitting the cymbal directly in the center - it'll warp over time.





