AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 22" Ride Cymbals Under $1,000 2026

The top pick is A. Zildjian 22" '60s Stamp Ride Cymbal ($652). Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride gives you the most for the money at $134. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 143 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 18, 2026

143models in this chart
9brands
$613median price
18price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 22" Ride Cymbals Showing: Under $1,000 · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

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 Dark B.Apple Trad. · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Big Apple Tradition ride is a gorgeous, sophisticated cymbal. It's got a really warm, controlled character that's perfect for jazz, fusion, or anyone wanting a darker, more vintage vibe. If you're looking for something beyond a bright, cutting ride, this is a seriously rewarding choice.

    Pros

    • Warm, woody stick definition thanks to the non-turned top.
    • Rich, complex crashes with a dark, sustaining undertone.
    • Hand-hammering creates nuanced sonic character and responsiveness.

    Cons

    • The darker sound profile might lack brilliance for brighter genres.
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
    80AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price55
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    ↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $719 · Aug 17$708 now
    $708€629 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. 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 ↗

  4. 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 ↗

  5. 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 ↗

  6. 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 ↗

  7. Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride

    22" Byzance Dark Ride · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Meinl Byzance Dark Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal offering a sophisticated, dark sound with a surprising amount of articulation. It's perfect for jazz, fusion, and contemporary styles where a mellow, complex wash and defined stick definition are essential. The hand-hammered quality really shines through, making it a joy to play.

    Pros

    • Exceptional dark, wash tone with surprising clarity and articulation
    • Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a responsive feel
    • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, musical, and long sustain

    Cons

    • High-end price point makes it a significant investment for many drummers
    • Dark sound may not suit all musical genres, limiting versatility
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$719 now
    $719€639 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Meinl 22" Byzance Dark Big Apple Ride

    22" Byzance Dark B.Apple Flat · Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size22"

    This Meinl Byzance Dark B.Apple Flat is a beautifully crafted ride, delivering a warm, controlled sound with incredible stick definition. It's perfect for jazz, funk, and softer rock styles where a nuanced, earthy tone is desired. The lack of a bell focuses the sound, making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate and focused ride cymbal.

    Pros

    • Exceptional stick definition for crisp, articulate patterns.
    • Warm, earthy undertones provide a unique sonic signature.
    • Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a lively response.

    Cons

    • The darker tone might be too subdued for brighter genres like metal.
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
    79AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand85
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$730 now
    $730€649 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. 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
    Index
    • Demand88
    • Lineup63
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker91
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$742 now
    $742€659 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. 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
    78AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$787 now
    $787€699 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 143 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" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" Classics Custom Dark Ride · Meinl
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  2. 12
    Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$332€295
    $332€295Check ↗
  3. 13
    Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal22" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  4. 14
    Sabian 22" Stratus Ride Cymbal22" Stratus Ride · Sabian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  5. 15
    Zildjian 22" K Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" A-Custom Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$560€498
    $560€498Check ↗
  6. 16
    Sabian 22" Stratus Ride Cymbal22" Stratus Dry Ride · Sabian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$573€509
    $573€509Check ↗
  7. 17
    Zildjian 22" K Series Light Ride Cymbal22" K-Series Light Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  8. 18
    Zildjian 22" K Custom Dark Ride Cymbal22" K-Custom Dark Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$673€598
    $673€598Check ↗
  9. 19
    Zildjian 22" K Custom High Definition Ride Cymbal22" K-Custom High Definition · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$673€598
    $673€598Check ↗
  10. 20
    Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal22" K Constantinople Low Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$787€699
    $787€699Check ↗
  11. 21
    Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin Low Ride Cymbal22" K Constantinople Thin Ride · Zildjian
    Index 77Stable
    77
    Stable$872€775
    $872€775Check ↗
  12. 22
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/RideMeinl
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  13. 23
    Paiste 22" Masters Series Swish Cymbal22" Masters Swish Cymbal · Paiste
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  14. 24
    Meinl 22" Byzance Dual Crash/Ride22" Byzance Sand Crash/Ride · Meinl
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$719€639
    $719€639Check ↗
  15. 25
    Sabian 22" HHX Complex Medium Ride Cymbal22" HHX Complex Medium Ride · Sabian
    Index 76Stable
    76
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  16. 26
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$438€389
    $438€389Check ↗
  17. 27
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy Custom Ride · Meinl
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$500€444
    $500€444Check ↗
  18. 28
    Zildjian 22" K Series Dark Medium Ride Cymbal22" K-Series Dark Medium Ride · Zildjian
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$640€569
    $640€569Check ↗
  19. 29
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Ride Cymbal22" Agop Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$692€615
    $692€615Check ↗
  20. 30
    Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal22" Masters Dark Crash/Ride · Paiste
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  21. 31
    Paiste 22" Masters Dark Crash / Ride Cymbal22" Masters Dark Ride · Paiste
    Index 75Stable
    75
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  22. 32
    Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Series Dark Ride Cymbal22" Traditional Dark Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 74Stable
    74
    Stable$577€513
    $577€513Check ↗
  23. 33
    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 ↗
  24. 34
    Zildjian 22" K Constantinople Medium Thin High Ride Cymbal22" K Constantinople High Ride · Zildjian
    Index 74↓ 1.4%
    74
    ↓ 1.4%$775€689
    $775€689Check ↗
  25. 35
    Istanbul Agop 22" 30th Anniversary Ride Cymbal Traditional22" 30th Anniversary Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 74Stable
    74
    Stable$843€749
    $843€749Check ↗
  26. 36
    Istanbul Agop 22" 30th Anniversary Ride Cymbal Traditional22" 30th Anniversary Med. Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 74Stable
    74
    Stable$854€759
    $854€759Check ↗
  27. 37
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy E.Hammered C-R · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$500€444
    $500€444Check ↗
  28. 38
    Meinl 22" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal22" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$505€449
    $505€449Check ↗
  29. 39
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Medium Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$652€579
    $652€579Check ↗
  30. 40
    Paiste 22" Signature Reflector Nicko McBrain "Powerslave" Bell Ride…22" Signature Blue Bell Ride · Paiste
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$674€599
    $674€599Check ↗
  31. 41
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Dry Th. Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$708€629
    $708€629Check ↗
  32. 42
    Meinl 22" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Ride22" Byzance Extra Ham. Ride · Meinl
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$715€635
    $715€635Check ↗
  33. 43
    Sabian 22" HH Remastered Todd Sucherman Signature Sessions Ride Cymbal22" HH Sessions Ride · Sabian
    Index 73Stable
    73
    Stable$843€749
    $843€749Check ↗
  34. 44
    Paiste 22" 2002 Black Big Beat CymbalPaiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  35. 45
    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 ↗
  36. 46
    Paiste 22" Giant Beat Multi-Functional Cymbal22" Giant Beat Multi Ride · Paiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$494€439
    $494€439Check ↗
  37. 47
    Istanbul Agop 22" Traditional Series Crash/Ride Cymbal22" Traditional Crash Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$595€529
    $595€529Check ↗
  38. 48
    Istanbul Agop 22" Signature Mel Lewis Ride22" Mel Lewis Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  39. 49
    Paiste 22" RUDE "The Reign" Dave Lombardo Signature Power Ride Cymbal22" Signature Power Ride · Paiste
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$742€659
    $742€659Check ↗
  40. 50
    Paiste 22" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal22" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste
    Index 71↓ 3.6%
    71
    ↓ 3.6%$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗

22" Ride Cymbals by the numbers

Measured across all 145 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $613 — half of all 22" ride cymbals here cost less.

1
0
7
24
16
81
16
<$150$150–200$200–300$300–400$400–500$500–750$750+
Size22"

median of 145 models · 22"–22"

How to choose the best 22" ride cymbals

Wash vs. Stick Definition

A good ride needs both. Too much wash and it's a blurry mess; too little and it's just a clang. We're looking for that balance where the wash supports the stick sound, not drowns it out.

Sustain & Decay

This isn't just about how long the cymbal rings, but how it decays. A nice, musical decay is what separates a cheap ride from something usable. A harsh, abrupt cutoff is a dead giveaway.

Bell Tone

The bell is crucial for accents and that shimmering quality. A bell that's too loud can bury the rest of the kit.

Cut & Projection

Does it cut through the mix? This is vital for gigging. A ride that gets lost under the guitars and bass is useless, no matter how pretty it sounds in a vacuum.

Feel & Playability

This is subjective, but important. Does the cymbal feel responsive? Does it inspire you to play? A stiff, unresponsive ride will kill your groove, even if it sounds decent.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're hunting for a 22" ride and you're smart enough to not drop a grand on it right away. 22" is a sweet spot - big enough to get that wash and sustain, but still articulate enough to keep your time solid. Finding a ride that sounds good, plays well, and doesn't break the bank is possible, but you gotta know what to look for. Let's break down the best options under $1000.

At this price point, expect some trade-offs. You're probably not getting hand-hammered perfection. Most likely, you'll find B-stock deals or models using slightly thinner alloys.

The biggest corner that gets cut is in hammering and lathing - cheaper rides often have a more machine-like feel and less complex overtone series. Don't chase bright, sparkly cleans - look for complexity and a warm, musical character. Focus on the overall feel and response; a slightly uneven wash is preferable to a dull, lifeless 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 145 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 B-stock and new?

B-stock usually means a minor cosmetic imperfection - a small scratch or ding. It's often heavily discounted and plays identically to a new cymbal. Inspect it carefully before buying, but don't sweat small blemishes.

Are bronze cymbals always better?

Not necessarily. Bronze (B20) is the standard, but alloy composition varies. Some B8 bronze rides can sound surprisingly good. It's more about the manufacturing process than just the bronze itself.

Can I realistically expect a 'vintage' sound under $1000?

Not a perfect vintage recreation, but you can find rides with warm, complex tones that evoke that vibe. Look for models described as 'medium' or 'light-medium' weight, and listen for a darker, more nuanced character.

What about crash/ride hybrids?

Crash/ride hybrids are a compromise. They'll be louder and more crash-like than a dedicated ride. They're okay for beginners or situations where you need a versatile cymbal, but a dedicated ride will always be more focused.

How much should I expect to spend on shipping?

Cymbals are heavy! Shipping can easily add $30-$50, so factor that into your budget. Check the retailer's shipping policies before you commit.

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