AudioFu
Warwick Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 LH… ↓ 33.4% $671Allen & Heath SQ5 ↓ 28.8% $2,912Warwick Alien Deluxe 5 NT LH ↓ 27.8% $727Allen & Heath SQ5 Case Bundle I ↓ 26.7% $3,170Casio AP-S200 BN ↓ 23.9% $963Allen & Heath SQ5, Case, DX168/X… ↓ 21.7% $5,187Dangerous Music 2 Bus+ ↓ 21.0% $4,033Orange PPC212-COB ↓ 20.6% $586Orange Micro Dark ↓ 20.2% $195Seymour Duncan SHR-1B Hot Rails… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SHR1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Bridge… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Parchment ↓ 19.3% $122

Catalog

12" China Cymbals

7 instruments available · See the ranking

Meinl Pure Alloy 12" Trash China

12" China Cymbals

$176€157Check ↗

Sabian 12" AA Mini Holy China

12" China Cymbals

$275€245Check ↗

Meinl 12" HCS China

12" China Cymbals

$47€42Check ↗

Thomann China Cymbal 30cm

12" China Cymbals

$44€39Check ↗

Sabian 12" AAX Mini China Brilliant

12" China Cymbals

$257€229Check ↗

Meinl 12" Pure Alloy Cust. Trash Ch.

12" China Cymbals

$201€179Check ↗

Zildjian 12" FX China Trash

12" China Cymbals

$257€229Check ↗

About 12" China Cymbals

12-inch China cymbals offer a focused, explosive crash and wash sound, ideal for adding dynamic accents and unique textures to drum kits. They're frequently used in rock, metal, and modern pop styles to create impactful rhythmic punctuation. Their smaller size provides more control and a quicker response compared to larger China cymbals.

Best for

Rock drummersmetal percussionistsstudio recordinglive performanceadding unique textures

What to look for

Sound character (trashybrightdark)bell size and responsivenessoverall weightcymbal alloylathing and finish

12" China Cymbals — pros & cons

Pros
  • Compact size allows for greater control and maneuverability.
  • Versatile sound suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
  • Adds unique rhythmic color and accents to a drum kit.
  • Generally more affordable than larger China cymbal options.
Cons
  • Can lack the deep, resonant wash of larger China cymbals.
  • May not project as powerfully as larger cymbals in larger venues.
  • Higher pitched sounds can sometimes be piercing if not carefully controlled.
  • Smaller bell can be less defined in complex arrangements.

Questions about 12" China Cymbals

What's the difference between a China and a Chinese Cymbal?

Historically, 'Chinese' cymbals were traditional Chinese percussion instruments. 'China' cymbals are modern drum cymbals inspired by that look and sound, often with a more trashy, explosive character.

How does the lathing affect the sound of a 12” China?

Heavier lathing generally produces a darker, more controlled sound, while lighter lathing yields a brighter, more explosive response. The lathing's profile also influences the cymbal's stick feel.

Are 12” China cymbals suitable for quieter genres like jazz?

While primarily used for louder genres, a carefully selected 12” China with a darker, more controlled sound *can* be used in jazz for subtle accents, but it requires a very nuanced touch to avoid overpowering the kit.

 Check price ↗