AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Triangles for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Playwood Triangle TRI-10N ($85). Meinl TRI15B 6" Brass Triangle with Beater gives you the most for the money at $36. Sabian 8" Triangle HH B8 Bronze leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 84 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Size10"
This Playwood TRI-10N is a solid, budget-friendly triangle perfect for students, hobbyists, and anyone needing a reliable orchestral percussion instrument. The bright tone cuts through an ensemble nicely, and the included accessories make it ready to play straight out of the bag. It’s a workhorse triangle that delivers surprising quality for its price point.
Pros
- Bright, clear tone with excellent sustain for its size.
- Solid steel construction ensures durability for regular use.
- Included holder provides stable playing position and reduces vibration.
Cons
- The uncoated steel can be prone to fingerprints and slight surface oxidation.
- The included mallet is basic; a more sophisticated mallet would enhance tone.
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- Size8"
This Sabian 8 in triangle is a solid, reliable choice for students, pit orchestras, and anyone needing a dependable triangle. The B8 bronze gives it a pleasant, warm tone that cuts through without being harsh, and the hand-hammering adds a touch of complexity you won’t find on cheaper models. It's a workhorse instrument that'll hold up to regular use.
Pros
- Hand-hammering provides a complex, shimmering overtone series.
- B8 bronze offers a warm, balanced tone suitable for diverse genres.
- Robust construction ensures durability for frequent use and transport.
Cons
- B8 bronze lacks the ultimate sustain and clarity of premium bronze alloys.
- The included beater is basic; an upgraded mallet enhances tone.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$161 now$161€144 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl TRI15B 6" Brass Triangle with Beater
TRI15B Triangle · Meinl
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size6"
This Meinl TRI15B is a solid, well-made triangle perfect for orchestral work, studio sessions, or adding a subtle shimmer to folk arrangements. The brass construction delivers a bright, focused tone, and the included grip makes it easy to handle. It's a reliable and affordable option for students and professionals alike.
Pros
- Solid brass construction yields a clear, resonant tone.
- The wooden grip offers comfortable and secure handling.
- Includes a functional beater for immediate playing.
Cons
- The brass finish is prone to fingerprints and minor scratches.
- The included beater is basic; a felt-covered option would be preferable.
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- Size9"
This Grover triangle is a solid, dependable choice for student and professional orchestral percussionists. The bronze delivers a clean, focused tone that cuts through an ensemble, and the included clip makes it easy to integrate into any setup. It's a workhorse triangle – nothing flashy, just reliably good performance.
Pros
- Excellent bronze tone, clear and resonant for orchestral use
- Well-machined edges provide consistent, bright articulation
- Durable construction from Grover, a respected percussion brand
Cons
- 9-inch size is somewhat limited for louder, more impactful passages
- Bronze finish can tarnish with frequent use and handling
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- Size7"
This Grover triangle is a solid, dependable choice for students and professionals alike. The bronze construction delivers a bright, clear tone that cuts through an orchestra, and the clip makes it easy to mount. It's a budget-friendly way to get a quality triangle without sacrificing sound.
Pros
- Excellent bronze tone, clear and resonant across the spectrum
- Well-machined edges prevent unwanted buzzing or harshness
- Robust clip provides secure mounting on a wide range of stands
Cons
- 7-inch size might feel a bit small for some experienced players
- Bronze finish can tarnish over time, requiring occasional polishing
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- Size8"
This Grover triangle is a reliable workhorse for students and professionals alike. The bronze construction delivers a bright, clean tone that cuts through an orchestra, and the included accessories make it immediately usable. It's a solid choice if you need a dependable triangle without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Excellent bronze tone, clear and resonant across the spectrum.
- Solid, well-machined construction; feels robust in the hand.
- The included beater is surprisingly good for orchestral work.
Cons
- 8-inch size is a bit small for some larger orchestral sections.
- Bronze finish can be prone to tarnishing with regular use.
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- Size5"
This Grover triangle is a solid, dependable choice for students and hobbyists needing a good-sounding, well-built triangle. The hammered surface gives it a pleasing complexity, and the clip keeps it stable. It's a workhorse triangle, perfect for school orchestras or anyone needing a reliable orchestral percussion instrument.
Pros
- Excellent bronze tone with clear, ringing sustain.
- Hammered surface provides complex overtones and projection.
- Robust construction; feels durable for repeated use.
Cons
- 5-inch size limits dynamic range for larger orchestral settings.
- Bronze finish may tarnish with regular use and handling.
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- Size4"
This Grover triangle is a solid, dependable choice for students and professionals alike. The bronze construction delivers a bright, clear tone that cuts through an orchestra, and the included clip makes it easy to mount. It's a straightforward, well-made triangle that gets the job done without unnecessary frills.
Pros
- Excellent bronze tone, clear and resonant across the spectrum
- Grover’s hammering provides a focused, articulate sound
- Durable construction; feels solid and reliable in the hand
Cons
- The 4-inch size might be a little small for louder orchestral settings
- Bronze can develop tarnish; requires occasional cleaning for optimal shine
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- Size7"
This Grover triangle is a solid, dependable option for students and hobbyists. The bronze provides a nice, bright shimmer, and the included bag and beater are a nice touch. It's a no-frills, well-made triangle that’ll serve orchestral, pit, and even some studio recording needs well.
Pros
- Bright, clear tone thanks to the quality bronze construction
- Well-hammered surface promotes even, shimmering resonance
- Includes a practical, protective carrying bag for transport and storage
Cons
- 7-inch size is somewhat limiting for very large orchestral sections
- The included clip could be sturdier for demanding performance use
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- Size6"
This Grover triangle is a solid choice for orchestral players and percussionists needing a reliable, bright triangle. The hammered surface gives it a really nice, complex tone that cuts through an ensemble. It's a great, affordable option for students or professionals alike.
Pros
- Excellent bronze tone with clear, sustained shimmer
- Hammered surface provides nuanced, complex overtones
- Robust, heavy-gauge construction ensures durability
Cons
- Smaller size limits low-frequency response compared to larger triangles
- Clip mechanism could be improved for even tighter grip
All 84 triangles
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-BHL-9Grover Pro Percussion50Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 12
Sabian 8" Triangle B8 BronzeSabian50↓ 3.3%$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 13
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-BHL-8Grover Pro Percussion50Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 14
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-5Grover Pro Percussion50Stable$109€98$109€98Check ↗
- 15
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-6Grover Pro Percussion50Stable$109€98$109€98Check ↗
- 16
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-9Grover Pro Percussion50Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 17
Sabian 6" Triangle HH B8 BronzeSabian50↓ 3.7%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 18
Meinl TRI20-B Solid Brass 8" Triangle with BeaterTRI20B Triangle · Meinl69Stable$38€34$38€34Check ↗
- 19
Black Swamp Percussion OV-TR6 TriangleBlack Swamp Percussion49Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 20
Black Swamp Percussion OV-TR8 TriangleBlack Swamp Percussion49Stable$74€66$74€66Check ↗
- 21
Sabian 6" Triangle B8 BronzeSabian49Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 22
Kolberg 2117S TriangleKolberg · 6 finishes49Stable$101€90$101€90Check ↗
- 23
Kolberg 2121S TriangleKolberg · 6 finishes49Stable$116€104$116€104Check ↗
- 24
Sabian 10" Triangle B8 BronzeSabian49Stable$116€104$116€104Check ↗
- 25
Kolberg 2125S TriangleKolberg · 6 finishes49Stable$130€116$130€116Check ↗
- 26
Sabian 4" Triangle HH B8 BronzeSabian49Stable$136€122$136€122Check ↗
- 27
Sabian 4" Triangle B8 BronzeSabian51↓ 5.3%$60€54$60€54Check ↗
- 28
Kolberg 2114CCC TriangleKolberg · 5 finishes48Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 29
Playwood Triangle TRI-8PPlaywood46Stable$109€98$109€98Check ↗
- 30
Pearl PPS12T Stix-Free Triangle AdaptorPPS-12T · Pearl45Stable$128€115$128€115Check ↗
- 31
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-B-4Grover Pro Percussion50Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 32
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-B-5Grover Pro Percussion50Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 33
Black Swamp Percussion AT8 8" Artisal Triangle - SteelAT 8 Triangle · Black Swamp Percussion36Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 34
Black Swamp Percussion AT 4 TriangleBlack Swamp Percussion34Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 35
Black Swamp Percussion AT 6 TriangleBlack Swamp Percussion34Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 36
Black Swamp Percussion AT 10 TriangleBlack Swamp Percussion34Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 37
Grover Pro Percussion Triangle TR-B-6Grover Pro Percussion35Stable$61€55$61€55Check ↗
- 38
Studio 49 TI 1 Concert Triangle RoyalStudio 4933Stable$73€65$73€65Check ↗
- 39
Studio 49 TI 2 Concert Triangle RoyalStudio 4933Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 40
Studio 49 TI 3 Concert Triangle RoyalStudio 4933Stable$106€95$106€95Check ↗
- 41
Studio 49 TI 4 Concert Triangle RoyalStudio 4933Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 42
Meinl TRIL Liquid TriangleMeinl31Stable$75€67$75€67Check ↗
- 43
LP 311H One Handed TriangleLP46Stable$35€32$35€32Check ↗
- 44
Meinl TRI10B TriangleMeinl46Stable$32€29$32€29Check ↗
- 45
Studio 49 T20 TriangleStudio 4933Stable$36€32$36€32Check ↗
- 46
LP 311B 5" TriangleLP46Stable$16€14$16€14Check ↗
- 47
Sabian 10" Triangle HH B8 BronzeSabian · 2 finishes54↓ 2.2%$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 48
LP 311A 4" TriangleLP46Stable$15€14$15€14Check ↗
- 49
Studio 49 T15 TriangleStudio 4933Stable$30€27$30€27Check ↗
- 50
Sonor LTR18 TriangleSonor32Stable$30€27$30€27Check ↗
Triangles by the numbers
Measured across all 111 models we track, not a sample.
Median $128 — half of all triangles here cost less.
median of 53 models · 4"–10"
How to choose the best triangles
Size & Gauge
A 10-12 inch triangle is a sweet spot for intermediate players. Smaller ones get lost, larger ones are harder to control. Gauge (thickness) matters - thicker gauges offer a warmer, more sustained tone, while thinner gauges are brighter and more responsive, but can be brittle.
Material
Most triangles are bronze, but the alloy makes a difference. B20 bronze (like cymbal bronze) is generally considered superior, offering a richer, more complex tone than cheaper brass alloys. You'll hear a noticeable difference in the sustain and overtones.
Mallet Compatibility
A good triangle isn't just about the metal; it's about how it responds to different mallets. You want a triangle that works well with felt, rubber, and even harder plastic mallets, allowing you to explore a wider range of timbres.
Rim Profile
The shape of the rim affects the triangle's resonance. A rounded rim tends to produce a warmer, more mellow tone, while a sharper rim can create a more focused, cutting sound. Intermediate players benefit from a more forgiving, rounded rim to better understand tone shaping.
Suspension Method
How the triangle is suspended is crucial. A good suspension allows the triangle to vibrate freely, maximizing its sustain and tonal complexity. Avoid triangles with stiff, restrictive suspensions - they'll choke the sound.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're past the basic triangle-the one that clangs and gets you through beginner band class. You're starting to hear the nuances, the subtle differences in sustain and articulation. Stepping up your triangle game isn't about flashy bells, it's about control and response. Let's find you a triangle that'll let you really play it, not just hit it.
Don't chase the cheapest option; you're trading away crucial detail and control. A solid B20 bronze triangle with a well-designed suspension and a comfortable rim profile is worth the investment. Pay attention to the gauge - a slightly thicker gauge is often more forgiving for intermediate players still developing their technique.
Ultimately, listen to videos and try to hear samples before you commit; a triangle's tone is subjective, but the fundamentals of quality construction remain universal.
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 111 triangles 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 B20 bronze and brass?
B20 bronze offers a much richer, more complex tone with longer sustain and more overtones. Brass tends to be brighter, harsher, and lacks the depth of a bronze triangle. It's a noticeable difference that's worth the upgrade.
I'm gigging with my triangle - does durability matter?
Absolutely. Cheap triangles can crack or warp easily under the stress of travel and regular use. B20 bronze is generally more durable than cheaper brass, but even then, handle it with care. A padded case is a good idea.
What's a good starting mallet?
A medium-hard felt mallet is a great all-around choice. It offers a good balance of clarity and warmth. Experiment with rubber mallets for a drier, more percussive sound.
Can I tune a triangle?
Not really 'tune' it, but the suspension point and the mallet you use significantly impact the perceived pitch and timbre. Adjusting the suspension can slightly alter the resonance and sustain.
I'm struggling to get the triangle to cut through the mix. What am I doing wrong?
Check your mallet choice - a harder mallet will produce a brighter, more penetrating sound. Also, ensure the triangle is suspended properly and isn't being muffled by anything. Finally, consider your playing technique - a more focused strike will cut through better.





