AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Paiste 22" Ride Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal ($314). Paiste 22" Signature Full Ride Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 25 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$314 now$314€279 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$335 now$335€298 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$742 now$742€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 22" Masters Series Swish Cymbal
22" Masters Swish Cymbal · Paiste
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
The Paiste Masters Swish is a seriously unique ride – Jim Keltner’s collaboration really shines through. It’s perfect for players wanting a splashy, swirling sound that cuts through the mix, especially in jazz, world music, or anything needing a touch of exotic shimmer. Be ready for a bit of weight, though!
Pros
- Unique Swish design offers complex, shimmering wash sounds.
- CuSn20 bronze delivers a warm, dark, and responsive tone.
- Hand-hammered in Switzerland ensures exceptional build quality and consistency.
Cons
- The specialized sound isn't universally applicable across all musical genres.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most drummers.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$708 now$708€629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal
22" Masters Dark Crash/Ride · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
The Paiste Masters Dark Crash/Ride is a beautifully crafted, versatile cymbal. Its warm, dark tone and surprising clarity make it ideal for players seeking a sophisticated ride or a darker crash, particularly in genres like jazz, fusion, and progressive rock where cutting through a dense sonic landscape is essential.
Pros
- CuSn20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and dark tonal foundation.
- Hand-hammered Swiss construction ensures exceptional consistency and quality.
- The unique 'Dark' voicing cuts through dense mixes with surprising clarity.
Cons
- The dark, complex timbre may not suit brighter musical genres.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$730 now$730€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$742 now$742€659 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 22" Signature Reflector Nicko McBrain "Powerslave" Bell Ride…
22" Reflector "The Powerslave" · Paiste
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This Powerslave Reflector is a serious ride – Nicko McBrain's influence really shines through. It’s built for rock drummers needing a powerful, articulate bell and a wash of dark harmonics without being overly splashy. If you’re playing hard rock, metal, or anything needing that driving, controlled energy, this is a fantastic choice.
Pros
- Exceptional bell definition for powerful accents and fills.
- Paiste's Signature Bronze delivers a complex, dark, shimmering tone.
- Reflector series offers excellent projection and controlled sustain.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most drummers.
- The darker tone may not suit lighter genres like jazz or acoustic music.
74AudioFu
Index↓ 1.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$742 · Aug 17$730 now$730€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 22" Signature Reflector Nicko McBrain "Powerslave" Bell Ride…
22" Signature Blue Bell Ride · Paiste
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
This Signature Blue Bell Ride is a powerhouse – a seriously well-voiced cymbal with a huge, low bell. Copeland's influence shines through, making it surprisingly controllable despite its size and weight. It’s ideal for players needing a statement ride across diverse styles, from rock to funk.
Pros
- Exceptional bell clarity, deeply resonant and musical
- Paiste's Signature Bronze alloy delivers complex overtones
- Stewart Copeland’s input resulted in a truly usable, versatile ride
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
- The 'rough' finish can be a maintenance challenge, requiring careful cleaning
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$674 now$674€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size22"
This 2002 Black Big Beat is a powerhouse ride—it’s got a big, full sound with a surprisingly articulate stick response for its size. It's ideal for rock, fusion, and heavier styles where you need a ride that can cut through a dense mix, but still retain musicality. A great upgrade for intermediate to advanced players.
Pros
- Rich, complex wash with a surprising amount of stick definition
- Darker, more controlled crash response than standard 2002 rides
- CuSn8 bronze provides a warm, musical fundamental tone
Cons
- Can be overwhelming in smaller, more intimate acoustic settings
- The darker finish can mask subtle nuances in playing dynamics
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$483 now$483€429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 22" Giant Beat Multi-Functional Cymbal
22" Giant Beat Multi Ride · Paiste
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size22"
The Giant Beat Multi Ride is a real statement piece. It's got that unmistakable Paiste shimmer, but with a darker, more complex character than their Signature series. This ride excels in a wide range of musical situations – from subtle jazz to driving rock – and is perfect for players looking for a versatile and expressive ride that cuts through a mix.
Pros
- Rich, complex wash provides a shimmering, layered sound.
- CuSn8 bronze offers a warm, responsive feel and tonal depth.
- Versatile enough for quiet passages to powerful, full-band dynamics.
Cons
- The large size can be cumbersome for smaller drummers or tighter setups.
- The complex sound might not suit every genre or playing style.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$494 now$494€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 25 22" ride cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Paiste 22" RUDE "The Reign" Dave Lombardo Signature Power Ride Cymbal22" Rude Power Ride The Reign · Paiste72Stable$494€439$494€439Check ↗
- 12
Paiste 22" RUDE "The Reign" Dave Lombardo Signature Power Ride Cymbal22" Signature Power Ride · Paiste72Stable$742€659$742€659Check ↗
- 13
Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal22" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste71↓ 3.6%$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 14
Paiste 22" Signature Danny Carey Monad Dry Heavy Ride Cymbal22" Signature "Monad" Ride · Paiste71↓ 1.5%$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 15
Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal22" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste69Stable$314€279$314€279Check ↗
- 16
Paiste 22" Signature Mellow Ride Cymbal22" Signature Mellow Ride · Paiste67Stable$708€629$708€629Check ↗
- 17
Paiste 2002 Classic 22" Power RidePaiste56Stable$483€429$483€429Check ↗
- 18
Paiste 2002 Classic 22" Heavy RidePaiste56Stable$494€439$494€439Check ↗
- 19
Paiste 2002 Classic 22"RidePaiste56Stable$494€439$494€439Check ↗
- 20
Paiste 22" Masters Thin RidePaiste56Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 21
Paiste 22" Masters Dark FlatridePaiste56Stable$742€659$742€659Check ↗
- 22
Paiste 22" Traditional Light RidePaiste56Stable$820€729$820€729Check ↗
- 23
Paiste 22" 602 Mod. Essentials RidePaiste56Stable$820€729$820€729Check ↗
- 24
Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK2Paiste56Stable$832€739$832€739Check ↗
- 25
Paiste 22" Signature Dark Energy MK1Paiste56Stable$832€739$832€739Check ↗
22" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 146 models we track, not a sample.
Median $708 — half of all 22" ride cymbals here cost less.
median of 146 models · 22"–22"
How to choose the best 22" ride cymbals
Alloy & Series
Paiste's Signature Bronze (B12) is the classic, offering a complex, dark, and washier tone. The Giant Sound series is brighter, more direct, and designed to cut - a different beast altogether. Knowing the alloy is crucial to understanding the tonal character.
Wash vs. Stick Definition
Paiste rides often have a pronounced wash, which is great for creating atmosphere but can muddy things up if you need tight, defined stick sounds. The balance varies significantly between models - some are all wash, others have a surprisingly tight bell.
Sustain & Decay
Paiste's generally known for longer sustain, but the specific decay profile changes drastically. Some models will ring forever, while others have a quicker, more controlled decay - important for avoiding unwanted overtones in a dense mix.
Bell Response
The bell on a Paiste 22" can be a real asset for swells and accents. The action - how easily it responds - can vary; some bells are really responsive, others feel a bit stiff. This affects your ability to get those expressive swells.
Build Quality & Lathe Marks
Paiste's consistent manufacturing is a big part of the appeal. The lathe marks aren't just cosmetic; they affect the cymbal's vibration and response. Consistent patterns indicate quality control, and that translates to a more predictable playing experience.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk Paiste 22" rides. You're looking for something that'll cut through a rock band, shimmer on a jazz gig, or just feel good under your sticks in the practice room - a 22" is a sweet spot for versatility. Paiste has a long history of making cymbals that sound like something, and their 22" rides offer a range of character, but understanding what you're getting into is key. They're not cheap, but that Swiss engineering and alloy magic comes at a price.
Don't walk into this expecting a bright, sparkly clean sound - most Paiste rides have a darker, more complex character. The Giant Sound series is your go-to if you need to cut through a loud band, but be prepared for less wash. The B12 series is a workhorse for a wider range of styles, but it might need some careful mic placement to avoid getting lost in the mix.
Spend the money on a well-maintained, used model if you're on a budget - those lathe marks and bell response are hard to fake.
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 25 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 B8 and B12 Paiste?
B8 is the bronze alloy used in the Paiste Alpha series - it's more affordable but less complex-sounding. B12 is the Signature Bronze, offering a richer, more nuanced tone and better overall projection. B8 is fine for beginners, but B12 is a serious upgrade.
Are Paiste cymbals loud enough for live gigs?
Generally, yes. The Giant Sound series is particularly loud and cuts well. However, even the B12 series can be mic'd to achieve sufficient volume without excessive bleed. It depends on the room and the band's overall volume.
Can I get a Paiste ride that sounds like a Zildjian?
No, and you shouldn't try. Paiste's sonic signature is distinct. They have a darker, more complex wash and a different kind of sustain. Trying to force a Paiste to sound like a Zildjian is fighting its nature.
Do Paiste cymbals require special care?
Like any high-quality cymbal, they benefit from regular cleaning and occasional waxing. Avoid harsh chemicals; a cymbal cleaner and a soft cloth are all you need. Consistent maintenance will extend their lifespan and preserve their tone.
I'm a beginner drummer - should I buy a Paiste 22" ride?
It's not a bad idea, but spend some time experimenting with different brands first. A Paiste ride is an investment, and you need to develop your playing style before committing to a specific sound. A less expensive, more versatile ride might be a better starting point.
