AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 24" Ride Cymbals and Bigger Under $800 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 26 models across 8 brands, 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.
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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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
Paiste 24" 2002 John JR Robinson Swish Ride Cymbal
2002 24" Swish Ride · Paiste
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size24"
The 2002 Swish Ride is a quirky, characterful cymbal, born from a collaboration with John JR Robinson. It’s fantastic for drummers seeking a unique, atmospheric ride sound – think world music, experimental jazz, or anyone wanting a splash of something different in their groove. It’s a premium-priced option that’s a true conversation starter.
Pros
- Unique Swish profile delivers a distinctive, earthy shimmer.
- Paiste’s 2002 bronze offers a warm, responsive feel.
- Reversed bell provides a surprising, complex wash tone.
Cons
- The 'swish' effect can be polarizing; not universally appealing.
- Limited versatility compared to a traditional ride cymbal.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$584 now$584€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 26 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
Meinl 24" Byzance Traditional Extra Hammered Ride Cymbal24" Byzance Extra Ham. Ride · Meinl66Stable$771€685$771€685Check ↗
- 12
Meinl Pure Alloy 24" Medium RideMeinl57Stable$460€409$460€409Check ↗
- 13
Paiste 2002 Classic 24" Reverend Al'sPaiste57Stable$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 14
Paiste 2002 Classic 24" RidePaiste57Stable$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 15
Meinl 24" Byzance Chris Adler RideMeinl57Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 16
Istanbul Mehmet 24" Traditional Series Original Ride Cymbal24" Traditional Original Ride · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 17
Istanbul Mehmet 24" Turk Jazz Ride Cymbal24" Jazz Ride Siz. Turk Series · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$613€545$613€545Check ↗
- 18
Istanbul Agop 24" Traditional Dark RideIstanbul Agop55Stable$666€592$666€592Check ↗
- 19
Istanbul Agop 26" Traditional Dark RideIstanbul Agop55Stable$798€709$798€709Check ↗
- 20
Istanbul Agop 24" Custom Series SE Jazz RideIstanbul Agop55Stable$798€709$798€709Check ↗
- 21
Istanbul Mehmet 24" Mehmet Legend Sizzle RideIstanbul Mehmet54Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 22
Istanbul Mehmet 24" John Robinson Swish SizzleIstanbul Mehmet54Stable$673€598$673€598Check ↗
- 23
Zultan 24" Caz RideZultan52Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 24
Zultan 24" Heritage RideZultan52Stable$448€398$448€398Check ↗
- 25
Masterwork 24" Resonant RideMasterwork50Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 26
Sabian 24" Stratus Dry RideSabian50Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
24" Ride Cymbals and Bigger by the numbers
Measured across all 26 models we track, not a sample.
Median $595 — half of all 24" ride cymbals and bigger here cost less.
median of 26 models · 24"–24"
How to choose the best 24" ride cymbals and bigger
Sustain
Big rides need sustain, obviously, but it's about usable sustain. Too much wash can muddy a mix; you want enough to create a sense of space without losing articulation. Expect a shorter, more controlled sustain compared to higher-end options.
Articulation
This is crucial for cutting through. A good ride should clearly define the stick attack, even with a drummer playing aggressively. Cheaper rides often have a 'woofy' or undefined stick sound - something we're actively avoiding.
Bell Tone
The bell is where you get your 'ping' - that bright, cutting tone for accents and patterns. Bell tone quality tends to be the first thing to suffer in budget cymbals, often sounding brittle or thin. Look for a bell that's responsive without being harsh.
Overall Volume
A 24" ride should be loud enough to be heard in a band setting. Lower-priced cymbals can sometimes be surprisingly quiet, making them useless in a loud environment. Check videos of the cymbal being played with a band before committing.
Trash Factor
Let's be honest, budget cymbals can sound... rough. We're evaluating how much unwanted overtones, ringing, or generally unpleasant sounds the cymbal produces. Some inherent 'trash' is inevitable, but we're looking for the least offensive.
Buying guide
Alright, so you want a big ride - 24" or bigger - without emptying your bank account? It's doable, but you gotta be realistic. Forget about the shimmering, wash-y complexity of a Zildjian K Custom or a Sabian HHX Complex Ride in this price range. We're talking about getting a ride that cuts through a band mix, has usable stick definition, and doesn't sound like you're hitting a trash can lid. Let's find some good value.
At this price point, expect some compromises. You won't get a perfectly balanced cymbal with complex overtones. Most likely, you'll be trading off some wash for articulation, or some bell clarity for overall volume.
Don't chase shimmer; chase cut. Look for cymbals described as 'medium-thin' or 'medium' - they'll generally offer the best balance of response and volume. Also, consider B-stocks - you can often snag a factory-blemished cymbal for a significant discount.
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 26 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 B-stock cymbals worth it?
Absolutely. B-stocks are factory seconds - minor cosmetic flaws that don't affect the sound. You can save 20-40% easily. Just make sure you can live with the blemish.
What about alloy? Bronze vs. brass?
Most cymbals under $800 are brass. Bronze (B8 or B20) sounds better, but the difference is less noticeable on budget cymbals. You're better off spending the money elsewhere.
Can I realistically expect a 'dark' or 'vintage' sound?
Not really. Budget cymbals tend to be brighter and more direct. You can dampen them to simulate a darker sound, but it's not the same as a cymbal designed that way.
What's the deal with hammering and lathing?
Hammering adds complexity and character. Lathing (the groove pattern) affects sustain and stick definition. Don't expect intricate hammering or perfectly consistent lathing on budget models - it's a trade-off.
Is it better to buy one really good 24" ride or two smaller, higher-quality rides?
It depends. One big ride is great for a powerful, driving feel. Two smaller rides give you more versatility. Think about your style and what you need for your gigging situation.
