AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 24" Ride Cymbals and Bigger 2026
The top pick is Istanbul Agop 24" Signature Joey Waronker Ride ($798). Paiste 24" Color Sound 900 Series Mega Ride Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $348. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 28 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
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All 24" Ride Cymbals and BiggerTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Istanbul Agop 24" Signature Joey Waronker Ride
24" Agop Signature Ride · Istanbul Agop
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
This 24-inch ride is hand hammered in B20 bronze for a dark, dry sound with complex overtones. It works well as a crash too, but you don't know the bell size or weight yet. Musicians who like a dry stick response and warm tone will love this high-end cymbal.
Pros
- Hand hammered for unique voice
- Dark and dry stick response
- Musical complex overtones
Cons
- No finish details provided
- Bell size not stated
83AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$798 now$798€709 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 24" Giant Beat Multi-Functional Cymbal
24" Giant Beat Multi Ride · Paiste
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
The Paiste Giant Beat Multi Ride is a statement piece – it's big, bold, and undeniably unique. It’s a great choice for drummers seeking a ride with a powerful wash and a slightly gritty edge, perfect for rock, funk, or anything needing some serious vibe. This cymbal thrives when it can really breathe and project.
Pros
- CuSn8 bronze offers a warm, complex, and shimmering wash.
- Giant Beat series provides a unique, slightly trashy character.
- Regular finish delivers a balanced look and consistent sound.
Cons
- Can be overwhelming in quieter, more intimate settings.
- The 'trashy' character isn't for every style of music.
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$539 now$539€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 24" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal
24" Byzance Foundry Reserve LR · Meinl
7 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size24"
The Foundry Reserve LR is a gorgeous ride, offering a warm, dark, and incredibly musical wash. The extensive hammering gives it a depth you can really sink into, and it's surprisingly responsive for a cymbal of this size. This is a top-tier choice for jazz, fusion, and any style needing a sophisticated, mellow shimmer.
Pros
- Exceptional warmth and complexity due to extensive hammering
- Versatile bell provides a focused, musical projection
- B20 bronze construction delivers rich, nuanced overtones
Cons
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
- The light ride designation might be too dark for some genres
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$874 now$874€777 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 24" Color Sound 900 Series Mega Ride Cymbal
24" 900 Series Mega Ride · Paiste
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
This Mega Ride from Paiste's 900 series is a real beast – a big, full sound that cuts through a loud band. It's fantastic for rock, pop, and anything needing a commanding presence. If you’re looking for a statement ride without the premium price tag, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Rich, warm fundamental tone ideal for diverse musical styles
- B8 bronze provides a balanced brightness and sustain
- Large 24-inch diameter maximizes sonic projection and wash
Cons
- Can be overwhelming in quieter, more intimate settings
- Relatively heavy, requiring a sturdy cymbal stand
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$348 now$348€309 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 24" Color Sound 900 Series Mega Ride Cymbal
24" 900 Color Mega Ride BK · Paiste
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
This is a big 24-inch ride that cuts through loud bands with a warm, full sound. Made from B8 bronze, it feels like a solid choice for players who need volume and warmth. The black finish makes it stand out on stage, but you won't find details on weight or bell size here.
Pros
- Delivers full sound with strong warm tone
- Penetrating ride cymbal perfect for loud play
- Crafted from B8 bronze for rich resonance
Cons
- Limited to single color option in description
- Bell size and specific weight not listed
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$404 now$404€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size24"
This 24' 2002 Black Big Beat is a powerhouse ride—it’s got a big, dark sound with a surprising amount of cut. It's ideal for drummers needing a statement ride for larger stages or heavier genres where you want to be heard, but it’s not for the faint of heart or those seeking subtlety.
Pros
- Rich, dark wash with surprising projection for its size.
- CuSn8 bronze provides a warm, complex, and responsive feel.
- The heavier hammering creates a controlled, powerful crash element.
Cons
- Can be overwhelming in smaller, more intimate settings due to its volume.
- The darkened finish might be too dark for players seeking a bright sound.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$562 now$562€499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 24" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal
24" Classics Custom Dark Ride · Meinl
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
This Classics Custom Dark Ride from Meinl is a beautifully voiced cymbal, offering a sophisticated and controlled dark ride tone. It's ideal for jazz, fusion, and softer rock styles where you want a washier, more musical response – a real workhorse for the discerning player.
Pros
- B12 bronze delivers a warm, complex wash unlike cheaper alloys.
- Mechanically hammered shaping creates nuanced stick definition and movement.
- German manufacturing ensures exceptional consistency and high-quality craftsmanship.
Cons
- The darker sound profile may lack the shimmering brightness some drummers prefer.
- Its larger size can be cumbersome for players with smaller kits or limited space.
75AudioFu
Index↓ 3.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$370 · Aug 17$359 now$359€319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 24" RUDE John Dolmayan Eclipse Mega Power Ride Cymbal
24" Rude Mega Power Ride · Paiste
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
This Rude Mega Power Ride is a beast – a seriously powerful ride with a dark, dry tone and a huge bell. It’s perfect for rock, metal, and heavier genres where you need a cymbal that can cut through a wall of sound and really make a statement. It’s a flagship Paiste for a reason.
Pros
- Paiste's signature Rude voicing delivers a powerful, dark, and complex wash.
- The heavy hammering creates a robust build and exceptional durability.
- Large bell provides a commanding, deep projection perfect for big rooms.
Cons
- Its dark, dry nature limits versatility for brighter musical styles.
- The substantial weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
75AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$562 · Aug 17$539 now$539€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 24" K Series Light Ride Cymbal
24" K-Series Light Ride · Zildjian
21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
This K-Series Light Ride is a beauty. It delivers a gorgeous, shimmering wash and surprisingly clear articulation for a cymbal of this size and darkness – perfect for jazz, mellow rock, and country players seeking a sophisticated, expressive ride. The lighter weight makes it really playable, too.
Pros
- Exceptional wash with a dark, shimmering quality.
- The light weight offers effortless control and responsiveness.
- Traditional finish provides a nuanced, complex sonic character.
Cons
- The dark timbre might be too subdued for brighter genres.
- Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for many drummers.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$730 now$730€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 24" Byzance Jazz Big Apple Dark Ride
24" Byzance Dark B. Apple Ride · Meinl
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
This Byzance Dark B. Apple Ride is a beautifully crafted cymbal perfect for jazz, traditional, and quieter musical contexts. The shorter sustain and controlled wash make it exceptionally responsive, while the dark timbre provides a warm, sophisticated sound. It’s a serious upgrade for players seeking a refined, vintage-inspired ride.
Pros
- Exceptional dark, earthy tone ideal for jazz and quieter settings
- Hand-hammered lathing creates complex overtones and shimmering wash
- Relatively short sustain allows for precise, controlled rhythmic patterns
Cons
- Price point places it firmly in the premium-priced category
- Limited versatility; not ideal for high-volume or aggressive playing styles
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$775 now$775€689 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 28 24" ride cymbals and bigger
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Paiste 24" 2002 John JR Robinson Swish Ride Cymbal2002 24" Swish Ride · Paiste70Stable$584€519$584€519Check ↗
- 12
Meinl 24" Byzance Traditional Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal24" Byzance Extra Ham. Ride · Meinl66Stable$771€685$771€685Check ↗
- 13
Istanbul Agop 24" 30th Anniversary RideIstanbul Agop66↓ 2.4%$933€829$933€829Check ↗
- 14
Meinl Pure Alloy 24" Medium RideMeinl57Stable$460€409$460€409Check ↗
- 15
Paiste 2002 Classic 24" Reverend Al'sPaiste57Stable$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 16
Paiste 2002 Classic 24" RidePaiste57Stable$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 17
Meinl 24" Byzance Chris Adler RideMeinl57Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 18
Istanbul Mehmet 24" Traditional Series Original Ride Cymbal24" Traditional Original Ride · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 19
Istanbul Mehmet 24" Turk Jazz Ride Cymbal24" Jazz Ride Siz. Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$613€545$613€545Check ↗
- 20
Istanbul Agop 24" Traditional Dark RideIstanbul Agop55Stable$666€592$666€592Check ↗
- 21
Istanbul Agop 24" Custom Series SE Jazz RideIstanbul Agop55Stable$798€709$798€709Check ↗
- 22
Istanbul Agop 26" Traditional Dark RideIstanbul Agop55Stable$798€709$798€709Check ↗
- 23
Istanbul Mehmet 24" Mehmet Legend Sizzle RideIstanbul Mehmet54Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 24
Istanbul Mehmet 24" John Robinson Swish SizzleIstanbul Mehmet54Stable$673€598$673€598Check ↗
- 25
Zultan 24" Caz RideZultan52Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 26
Zultan 24" Heritage RideZultan52Stable$448€398$448€398Check ↗
- 27
Masterwork 24" Resonant RideMasterwork50Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 28
Sabian 24" Stratus Dry RideSabian50Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
24" Ride Cymbals and Bigger by the numbers
Measured across all 29 models we track, not a sample.
Median $607 — half of all 24" ride cymbals and bigger here cost less.
median of 29 models · 24"–24"
How to choose the best 24" ride cymbals and bigger
Sustain
Big rides are all about sustain, obviously. But it's not just how long it rings, it's the quality of that sustain. Does it decay gracefully, or does it just hang there, muddying the low-end? A good big ride should have a noticeable sustain without becoming a sonic mess.
Wash vs. Stick Definition
This is the constant balancing act. Too much wash and you lose articulation; too much stick definition and it sounds brittle and icy. The best big rides have a sweet spot where the stick sound is clear and present without being overwhelmed by the wash, especially important for gigging situations where you're battling guitars and bass.
Fundamental Tone
Forget 'bright' or 'dark' - we're after the character of the tone. Does it have a warm, smoky depth? A cutting, bell-like clarity? A fat midrange honk that really anchors the groove? The fundamental tone dictates the overall vibe of the ride and how it interacts with the rest of the kit.
Bell Thickness
The bell is crucial for projection and overtone content. A thicker bell generally means more volume and a more focused sound, but can also lead to a harsher stick attack. A thinner bell will be more responsive and potentially have a warmer tone, but might not cut through a loud mix as well.
Weight and Feel
A heavier cymbal will generally have more sustain and volume, but it can also feel sluggish. Lighter cymbals are more responsive but might lack the sonic power you need. This is very subjective - what feels good under your stick is paramount, especially for dynamic playing.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk about those big rides - 24 inches and up. You're moving beyond the standard 16-18 inch territory, and you're looking for something with serious presence. These aren't your washboard-sounding practice cymbals; we're talking about instruments that can define a groove, cut through a loud band, or add some serious shimmer to a studio recording. Picking the right one is crucial - too much wash and you're just adding mud, too much stick definition and it's harsh. Let's sort through it.
Big rides are an investment. The biggest corner cutters will often use thinner bronze alloys, resulting in shorter sustain and a washy, undefined sound. Don't be fooled by size alone; listen carefully to recordings and, if possible, play before you buy.
Spending a bit more for a cymbal with a well-defined fundamental tone and a good balance between wash and articulation will pay off big time, both on stage and in the studio.
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 29 24" ride cymbals and bigger 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
Are all 24" rides the same?
Absolutely not. Size isn't everything. Different manufacturers use different alloys, hammering techniques, and lathing patterns, all of which drastically affect the sound and feel.
I need a ride that cuts through a loud rock band. What should I look for?
Focus on a ride with a thicker bell and a relatively high stick definition. You'll want a more focused fundamental tone and less wash to avoid getting lost in the mix. Consider a raw finish - it tends to be brighter.
I'm recording a mellow jazz album. What kind of big ride should I choose?
Look for a ride with a warm, dark fundamental tone and a generous amount of wash. A thinner bell will be more responsive and contribute to a more nuanced sound. A traditional finish will enhance the warmth.
Can I realistically use a 26" ride in a small, intimate setting?
It's possible, but you'll need to be mindful of dynamics. A big ride can easily overwhelm a small space if you're not careful. Consider using lighter striking techniques and being aware of your overall volume level.
Are raw or brilliant finishes better for a big ride?
It depends on the vibe you're after. Brilliant finishes tend to be brighter and more cutting, while raw finishes are warmer and more complex. Raw finishes will also develop a unique patina over time.
