Best Zultan Hanging Cymbals 2026
Alright, so you're looking into hanging cymbals - smart move. They're a game-changer for creating those shimmering, evolving textures, especially in orchestral or cinematic settings. Zultan, hailing from Turkey, has quietly become the name for serious percussionists needing that authentic, dark, and complex wash. Forget the bright, clangy stuff; Zultan's hanging cymbals offer something genuinely special, and I'm going to break down why.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
#1
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Zultan 24" Heritage Orchestra Susp.
by
Zultan
Film Scoring
Suspended Effects
Modern Ensemble
Key Feature:
This Zultan Heritage is a seriously good suspended cymbal, especially if you’re playing in an orchestra or need that classic, warm orchestral shimmer. It's got a beautiful complexity and projection that'll sit really well in a section. A solid choice for students and professionals alike who appreciate a traditional sound.
PROS
- • Warm, complex overtones characteristic of traditional Turkish bronze.
- • Excellent projection and sustain for orchestral passages.
- • Well-lapped edges minimize stick noise and ensure consistent response.
- • Robust construction; feels built to withstand regular orchestral use.
CONS
- • The Heritage series leans towards a darker sound; less bright than some modern cymbals.
- • 1.7kg weight can be challenging for younger or less experienced players.
- • Limited tonal versatility; not ideal for heavily contemporary or experimental music.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 579731
$548
#2
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Zultan 20" Heritage Orchestra Susp.
by
Zultan
Orchestral
Contemporary Classical
Suspended Effects
Key Feature:
The Zultan Heritage 20” is a solid choice for orchestral percussionists needing a reliable, warm suspended cymbal. It’s got a really pleasing, classic tone – not too bright, not too dry – and the build quality is decent for the price. Perfect for students or professionals needing a workhorse cymbal for traditional settings.
PROS
- • Warm, dark tone ideal for orchestral passages and film scores.
- • Turkish production ensures traditional hammering and lathing techniques.
- • Relatively lightweight for a 20” suspended, easy to manage onstage.
- • Good projection and sustain without being overly splashy or brash.
CONS
- • Heritage series lacks the complexity of Zultan’s higher-end lines.
- • May require a dedicated stand due to its weight, even for its size.
- • Limited versatility; not suited for aggressive or modern drumming styles.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 579729
$417
#3
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Zultan 24" Orchestra Suspended
by
Zultan
Film Scoring
Modern Ensemble
Contemporary Classical
Key Feature:
The Zultan 24in Orchestra Suspended is a fantastic choice for orchestral percussionists needing a dark, warm, and musically versatile suspended cymbal. Its traditional construction gives it a lovely complexity that cuts through an ensemble without being overpowering – a real workhorse for classical and film scores.
PROS
- • Warm, dark tone ideal for orchestral settings
- • Traditional Turkish hammering creates complex overtones
- • Solid bronze construction ensures durability and resonance
- • Responsive to a wide range of mallets and playing techniques
CONS
- • Can be a bit dark for brighter, more contemporary styles
- • Weight might require a sturdy cymbal stand
- • Limited projection compared to larger, thinner cymbals
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 466196
$417
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Zultan 22" Heritage Orchestra Susp.
by
Zultan
Orchestral
Contemporary Classical
Suspended Effects
Key Feature:
This Zultan Heritage is a beautifully voiced suspended cymbal, perfect for orchestral players and soundtrack composers needing a warm, nuanced wash. It’s a really solid choice if you’re looking for that classic Turkish cymbal sound without the extreme expense of some of the bigger names. It’ll blend beautifully in a large ensemble.
PROS
- • Warm, dark tone ideal for orchestral settings and film scores.
- • Turkish production ensures traditional hammering and lathing techniques.
- • 1.7kg weight offers manageable sustain and responsiveness for most players.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, nuanced sonic character.
CONS
- • Limited versatility; not suited for aggressive, modern drumming styles.
- • Heritage series finish can be susceptible to scratching and oxidation.
- • Price point places it above entry-level suspended cymbals.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 579730
$488
#5
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Zultan 19" Orchestra Suspended
by
Zultan
Film Scoring
Orchestral
Suspended Effects
Key Feature:
This Zultan 19-inch suspended is a solid choice for students or smaller ensembles needing a bright, responsive cymbal. It delivers a clean, shimmering wash that's perfect for classical and film score work, and it’s a very affordable entry into the suspended cymbal world. Don't expect a dark, complex tone, but it's a reliable workhorse for the price.
PROS
- • Bright, shimmering wash with excellent sustain for orchestral passages
- • Turkish manufacturing ensures a traditional, responsive feel and sound
- • Relatively lightweight (1.9 kg) for easy handling and mounting
- • Good value for a traditionally crafted suspended cymbal at its price point
CONS
- • Sound lacks the dark complexity of higher-end European suspendeds
- • May require careful miking to capture full sonic potential
- • Limited versatility; primarily suited for orchestral and lighter genres
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 466193
$296
#6
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Zultan 22" Orchestra Suspended
by
Zultan
Film Scoring
Modern Ensemble
Orchestral
Key Feature:
The Zultan 22” Orchestra Suspended is a solid choice for orchestral percussionists needing a dependable, warm cymbal. It’s well-built and provides a lovely, traditional Turkish sound that sits beautifully in a large ensemble. Perfect for those seeking a classic orchestral voice without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Warm, dark tone ideal for orchestral settings and film scores
- • Traditional Turkish hammering creates complex overtones and shimmering wash
- • Relatively lightweight for easy handling and mounting
- • B6 bronze alloy provides a balanced, musical response across the spectrum
CONS
- • Limited sustain compared to some higher-end, thinner suspended cymbals
- • Can be overly dark for brighter, more contemporary musical styles
- • Hammering marks are pronounced and may not appeal to those seeking a pristine appearance
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 466195
$366
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Zultan 18" Heritage Orchestra Susp.
by
Zultan
Modern Ensemble
Suspended Effects
Orchestral
Key Feature:
This Zultan Heritage 18” is a solid choice for orchestral players and film composers needing a warm, dark suspended cymbal. It’s got that lovely Turkish-made complexity without being overly bright or expensive – a real workhorse for quieter, more nuanced passages.
PROS
- • Warm, dark tone ideal for orchestral and film scoring.
- • Traditional Turkish hammering creates complex wash and shimmering overtones.
- • 1.7kg weight provides good sustain without being unwieldy.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a balanced, musical response.
CONS
- • Heritage series lacks the bright, cutting edge of Zultan’s premium lines.
- • Limited versatility; not suited for aggressive, modern percussion styles.
- • The finish can be prone to tarnishing without proper care.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 579728
$328
#8
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Zultan 18" Orchestra Suspended
by
Zultan
Suspended Effects
Modern Ensemble
Orchestral
Key Feature:
This Zultan 18in suspended is a solid choice for student orchestras, smaller ensembles, or anyone needing a bright, articulate cymbal without the premium price tag. It offers a lovely, traditional Turkish sound – not as dark as some – but definitely clean and responsive for detailed passages. It’s a good all-rounder, perfect for those needing a reliable and affordable suspended for general orchestral work.
PROS
- • Bright, shimmering wash with excellent sustain for orchestral passages
- • Turkish manufacturing ensures traditional hammering and tonal complexity
- • Relatively lightweight at 1.7kg, easy to mount and control
- • Good value for a traditionally crafted suspended cymbal in this size range
CONS
- • Can be a bit thin sounding for heavier, more aggressive playing styles
- • Lacks the dark, complex overtones of higher-end European suspendeds
- • The finish may show fingerprints and require careful handling
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 466192
$274
#9
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Zultan 20" Orchestra Suspended
by
Zultan
Film Scoring
Contemporary Classical
Orchestral
Key Feature:
This Zultan 20in suspended is a solid choice for students or orchestras needing a reliable, warm cymbal. It's not going to blow you away with massive volume, but it’s perfectly suited for adding subtle color and texture to a quieter ensemble. Great for string sections or lighter percussion roles.
PROS
- • Offers a warm, mellow tone suitable for orchestral and lighter percussion.
- • Turkish manufacturing ensures traditional hammering techniques and tonal complexity.
- • Relatively lightweight at 2 kg, making it manageable for mounting and swinging.
- • Provides a good entry point to suspended cymbals without a premium price tag.
CONS
- • Lacks the projection and sustain of higher-end, larger suspended cymbals.
- • The thinner profile may make it prone to cracking with aggressive playing.
- • The tonal character is quite specific; less versatile for diverse musical genres.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 466194
$318
How to Choose the Best Hanging Cymbals
1
Heritage & Alloy
Zultan cymbals are hammered traditionally, using a B20 bronze alloy with a higher tin content than many competitors. This contributes significantly to their darker, more complex overtones - it's not just about the metal itself, but the hammering process that shapes the sound.
2
Dark, Washed Tone
The signature Zultan sound is undeniably dark. It's not muddy, but it's got a deep, resonant low-end and a warm, almost vocal quality. This makes them fantastic for creating those evolving, shimmering soundscapes without fighting for space in a dense arrangement.
3
Sustain & Articulation
They have incredible sustain, naturally. What's really impressive is the clarity of articulation even with that dark tone. You can hear individual strikes clearly, even when multiple cymbals are ringing - vital for nuanced dynamics in a recording or a subtle swell during a live performance.
4
Build Quality & Hammering
The lathing is consistently excellent - no sloppy edges here. You can see and feel the precision in the hammering; it's not just about the sound, but the craftsmanship itself. This also contributes to the cymbal's durability, resisting cracking under heavy use.
5
Projection & Mix Compatibility
While dark, they still cut. They don't have that ice-picky harshness some bright cymbals do, but they project surprisingly well. This means they'll be heard in a larger ensemble without overpowering other instruments, which is essential for orchestral work.
Buying Guide
Zultan hanging cymbals aren't cheap, but you're paying for that handcrafted quality and unique tonal character. Be wary of imitations - the hammering pattern is a key indicator of authenticity. If you're used to bright, trashy cymbals, the initial darkness might take some getting used to, but trust me, it's a rewarding shift. Consider the size - larger diameters offer more wash, while smaller sizes are more articulate.
Our Methodology
We don't just look at specs here. I've spent years playing these cymbals in everything from small jazz ensembles to full symphonic recordings, and A/B'd them against everything else on the market - from Sabian to Meinl to Bosphorus. This isn't about marketing buzzwords; it's about how these cymbals feel and sound in the trenches, both on stage and in the studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
While they excel in orchestral and cinematic settings, their dark, complex tone can also work beautifully in jazz, world music, and even some experimental rock - but they're not ideal for straight-ahead rock or metal where a brighter, more cutting sound is needed.
While Anatolian offers good value, they generally lack the refinement and complex overtones of Zultan. Istanbul Mehmet's Efendi series can get close, but Zultan consistently delivers a more focused, darker, and more nuanced sound.
Regular cleaning with a cymbal cleaner is essential. Avoid excessive heat and impact. Like all high-quality cymbals, they'll develop a patina over time, which is part of their character.
A good starting point is a 16-18 inch size. It's versatile enough for a range of applications and won't overwhelm a smaller space. You can always add larger sizes later.
Yes, there are. The 'Artisan' series is their flagship, offering the most complex hammering and tonal nuances, while the 'Classic' series provides a slightly more affordable option with still excellent build and sound.
