AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Zultan Cymbal Sets 2026
The top pick is Zultan Z Series Professional Set ($870). Zultan Aja Fusion - Funk Bundle gives you the most for the money at $379. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 28 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 26, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size14"
The Zultan Z Series offers a truly unique and earthy sound that’s a welcome departure from the usual bright, processed cymbals. This set is perfect for drummers seeking a darker, more nuanced tone for genres like jazz, world music, or even a more organic rock sound – it’s a real character piece.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex, and earthy sonic palette.
- Hand-hammering creates unique tonal character and responsive stick attack.
- The ride cymbal offers a dark, wash-friendly sound with clear bell definition.
Cons
- The darker sound may not suit players needing bright, cutting cymbals.
- Hand-hammered cymbals require more careful handling and cleaning.
51AudioFu
Index↓ 2.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$893 · Aug 17$870 now$870€777 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Aja Fusion Funk Bundle is a fantastic entry point for drummers wanting a complete, well-balanced set. The bronze alloy gives it a bright, funky edge perfect for funk, R&B, and modern pop – it’s a really solid package for gigging musicians on a budget.
Pros
- High-grade bronze delivers crisp, articulate response across the set
- The 16 in crash offers a full, balanced sonic profile for impact
- The 20 in ride provides clear stick definition and ample volume
Cons
- The Aja series bronze may lack the complexity of B20 alloys
- The splash cymbal's thinness might limit its durability with aggressive playing
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$379 now$379€339 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
This handmade set uses B20 bronze for a bright but controlled tone. It comes with a hi-hat, two crashes, and a ride ready to go. It suits players who want an explosive sound without too much noise.
Pros
- Handmade from durable B20 bronze alloy
- Delivers explosive yet soft response
- Includes four distinct cymbal sizes
Cons
- No weight specifications listed
- Thickness details are missing
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$391 now$391€349 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Aja bundle is a solid entry point for drummers seeking a bright, modern sound without a premium price tag. It’s a great value for gigging musicians or students looking for a well-balanced set that cuts through a mix, especially suitable for rock, pop, and contemporary styles.
Pros
- Zultan’s B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, complex tone.
- The 16 in crash offers a surprisingly full and balanced response.
- Hi-hats provide a crisp, defined chick sound with good pedal response.
Cons
- The Aja series leans towards a brighter sound, limiting versatility for darker genres.
- The ride cymbal, while clear, may lack the wash favored by some jazz players.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$402 now$402€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Aja Profi bundle is a great starting point for beginner to intermediate drummers looking for a complete, affordable setup. The cymbals offer a decent level of responsiveness and volume without being overly splashy or muddy, making them versatile for rock, pop, and lighter funk styles. It’s a solid value for players on a budget who want a functional and transportable kit.
Pros
- The bronze alloy delivers a surprisingly bright, articulate tone for the price.
- The 18 in crash provides a powerful, full sound ideal for louder genres.
- The hi-hats offer a crisp, responsive feel with a defined chick sound.
Cons
- The bronze may lack the complexity of higher-end B20 alloys.
- The finish, likely a machine-polished satin, won't appeal to those seeking a more aged look.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$503 now$503€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
The Zultan F5 Standard Set is a surprisingly capable entry into the higher-end cymbal market. The hammering gives it a unique character, leaning towards a modern, powerful sound that's great for rock, pop, and even heavier genres. It's a solid choice for drummers looking for a big sound without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, full-bodied resonance.
- Hammered surface creates complex overtones and shimmer.
- Ride cymbal provides clear bell definition and stick response.
Cons
- The 'loud' designation might be overwhelming for quieter playing styles.
- Hammered finish can be more prone to scratching and patina.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$581 now$581€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Zultan Dune set delivers a distinctive, almost percussive sound – think film scores, industrial, or anything needing a unique texture. It's a surprisingly affordable way to get into hand-hammered Turkish cymbals, but be aware that its dry, dark character isn't for everyone. Perfect for drummers seeking a non-traditional, atmospheric voice.
Pros
- Unique dry, trashy sound ideal for experimental and cinematic music
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced tonal complexity and responsiveness
- B20 bronze offers a warm, dark foundation with inherent projection
Cons
- Limited versatility; not suited for bright, cutting styles like jazz or metal
- The 'trashy' sound can be overly dark and muddy in certain recording situations
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$615 now$615€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Zultan Raw set is a great entry point into the world of raw, unlathed cymbals. They offer a beautifully dark and controlled sound, perfect for drummers seeking a vintage vibe or a more organic feel without excessive sustain. Ideal for indie, alternative, and even some heavier styles where you want to cut through the mix without overwhelming it.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and character.
- Raw finish minimizes sustain, offering a controlled, earthy response.
Cons
- Raw finish can be prone to minor surface imperfections.
- Limited piece count restricts versatility for larger kits.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$615 now$615€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
The Zultan Rock Beat is a solid starter set for rock, pop, and lighter genres. It's surprisingly bright and articulate for a budget-friendly option, making it perfect for students or gigging musicians needing a reliable, portable kit. Don't expect boutique tones, but it'll hold its own.
Pros
- Bright, responsive hi-hats offer clean chick sounds.
- The 16 in crash delivers a quick, shimmering decay.
- 20 in ride provides a clear stick definition and wash.
Cons
- The B20 bronze alloy lacks the complexity of higher-end cymbals.
- Crash cymbal’s thinner weight might not suit heavier hitters.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$615 now$615€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size14"
The Zultan Caz Series Standard Set is a surprisingly refined package. It's got that classic, warm Zultan tone, but with a thinner, more responsive feel. This set’s perfect for jazz, fusion, or anyone seeking a darker, more traditional sound without the premium-priced tag.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers warm, complex tones typical of higher-end cymbals.
- Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick response and pleasing harmonic overtones.
- Lower weight and thinner profile offer comfortable playability, especially for jazz drummers.
Cons
- The thinner profile may not hold up to aggressive, heavy hitting as well as thicker cymbals.
- While versatile, the sound leans towards jazz and fusion; less ideal for metal or rock.
50AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$615 now$615€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 28 cymbal sets
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Zultan Z Series Standard SetZultan50Stable$669€598$669€598Check ↗
- 12
Zultan 25 Anniversary Cymbal Set 2Zultan50Stable$725€648$725€648Check ↗
- 13
Zultan Heritage Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$749€669$749€669Check ↗
- 14
Zultan Raw Profi Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$749€669$749€669Check ↗
- 15
Zultan Mellow Jazz Club Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$760€679$760€679Check ↗
- 16
Zultan Rock Beat Profi CymbalsetZultan50Stable$781€698$781€698Check ↗
- 17
Zultan Caz Series Professional SetZultan50Stable$781€698$781€698Check ↗
- 18
Zultan Aeon Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$816€729$816€729Check ↗
- 19
Zultan Alaris Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$837€748$837€748Check ↗
- 20
Zultan 25 Anniversary Cymbal Set 1Zultan50Stable$838€749$838€749Check ↗
- 21
Zultan Dune Grand Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$893€798$893€798Check ↗
- 22
Zultan Heritage Grand Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$893€798$893€798Check ↗
- 23
Zultan Mellow Professional Cymbal SetZultan50Stable$1,006€899$1,006€899Check ↗
- 24
Zultan Impulz Cymbal SetZultan42↑ 25.1%$557€498$557€498Check ↗
- 25
Zultan Dark Matter Cymbal SetZultan42↑ 20.1%$669€598$669€598Check ↗
- 26
Zultan Dark Matter Professional SetZultan42↑ 16.7%$781€698$781€698Check ↗
- 27
Zultan Q Series Standard SetZultan35Stable$592€529$592€529Check ↗
- 28
Zultan Q Series Professional SetZultan35Stable$749€669$749€669Check ↗
Cymbal Sets by the numbers
Measured across all 179 models we track, not a sample.
Median $749 — half of all cymbal sets here cost less.
median of 175 models · 12"–20"
How to choose the best cymbal sets
Hammering Technique
Zultan's 'Z-Sonic' hammering is what gives them that characteristic sound. It's not just random hammering; it's a specific process resulting in a complex wave pattern that creates a unique blend of warmth and shimmer. It's what creates the 'alive' feel.
Alloy Composition
They use a B20 bronze alloy, but the precise ratios are a closely guarded secret. This contributes to their darker, more complex overtones compared to some of the brighter B20 cymbals out there. It's not a 'dark' cymbal in the muddy sense, just more nuanced.
Lathing & Finishing
The lathing is consistently clean and precise, and the hand-laced finish contributes to the overall aesthetic and subtly affects the cymbal's response. You can feel the difference in the action compared to machine-lathed cymbals - it's more responsive.
Sustain & Articulation
Zultan cymbals really shine when you want articulate, musical crashes. They don't just ring forever; they have a controlled decay with beautiful overtones. They cut through a rock mix surprisingly well without being harsh.
Build Quality & Consistency
Each cymbal is hand-made, so there's a degree of variation. However, Zultan maintains surprisingly tight control over the process. You're getting a cymbal built to last, even with regular gigging.
Buying guide
Okay, so you're looking at Zultan cymbal sets. Smart move. They're not the household name like Sabian or Zildjian, but if you're chasing that Turkish hand-hammered vibe-that shimmering, complex wash with a surprising amount of stick definition-Zultan's worth a serious look. They're a bit pricier, but they offer a really unique tonal character you won't find elsewhere, especially if you're tired of the same generic bright, brittle sounds.
Look, Zultan cymbals aren't cheap. You're paying for that hand-hammered craftsmanship. Don't expect a Zultan crash to have the same aggressive, cutting high-end as a modern, thin crash from a mainstream brand - that's not their thing.
They're about musicality and complexity. Listen for that distinctive 'wash' and the clear stick definition. If you're a drummer who appreciates nuanced tone and isn't chasing pure volume, Zultan is a worthwhile investment.
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 28 cymbal sets from the Thomann catalogue (of 179 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
Are Zultan cymbals loud enough for a rock band?
They're not going to be the loudest cymbals on the market, but they're plenty loud enough for most rock applications, especially if you want a more musical sound rather than just sheer volume. The articulation is key - they cut through surprisingly well.
How do Zultan cymbals compare to Turkish cymbals from other manufacturers?
Many Turkish cymbal makers use similar techniques, but Zultan's 'Z-Sonic' hammering gives them a unique tonal signature. They tend to have a more controlled sustain and more complex overtones than some of the other brands.
What's the difference between the Zultan Bronze and Signature series?
The Signature series are generally more refined, with even more intricate hammering and a slightly higher price tag. The Bronze series are still excellent, offering a great balance of price and performance. It's a subtle difference, honestly.
Are Zultan cymbals easy to find?
They're not as readily available as the big brands, but most online retailers carry them. Finding a local drum shop that stocks them might be tougher, so online is usually the best bet.
Do Zultan cymbals require special care?
Like any hand-hammered cymbal, they benefit from regular cleaning and occasional polishing. Avoid harsh chemicals - just warm water and a soft cloth will do. Treat them with respect, and they'll last a long time.
