Meinl 21" Byzance Transition Ride

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Meinl 21" Byzance Transition Ride

Meinl

21" Byzance Transition Ride

4.8 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 329761
Brand: Meinl
Model: 21" Byzance Transition Ride
Price: $625.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

This Transition Ride from Meinl, co-created with Mike Johnston, is a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a versatile ride that balances stick definition with a crash-friendly response. It's perfect for genres like jazz, fusion, and contemporary worship where you need clarity and a controlled sound – it’s a workhorse that won't overwhelm a mix.

Product Description

  • Meinl 21" Byzance Transition Ride
  • Ride Cymbal
  • Size: 21"
  • Signature Ride Mike Johnston
  • Extra dry "natural" version
  • Material: B20 bronze
  • Hand hammered
  • Provides a perfect transition from articulated stick attacks towards open crash sounds
  • without losing its definition through too much noise
  • Clear ping and a present
  • but not overpowering
  • bell sound - an extremely versatile ride cymbal
PROS
  • • Mike Johnston’s signature provides a balanced, articulate response.
  • • B20 bronze delivers warm, complex overtones without excessive wash.
  • • Hand hammering creates nuanced stick definition and a responsive feel.
  • • The bell offers a clear, musical projection without being overwhelming.
CONS
  • • The 'extra dry' character might lack shimmer for some players’ preferences.
  • • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many drummers.
  • • Smaller bell size limits its projection for very loud, orchestral settings.

Product Video

Key Features

Size 21 in
Material B20 Bronze
Finish Natural
Sound Character Extra Dry, Articulate
Bell Size 4.5 in
Weight 2000 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Transition Ride’s ‘extra dry’ nature significantly dampens the high frequencies, resulting in a darker, more controlled sound compared to a brighter Meinl ride, offering less shimmer and more focused stick attack.
Yes, the natural finish means it will tarnish over time, which is part of its character and can be cleaned, but requires more maintenance than a lacquered cymbal.
Mike Johnston’s input focused on balancing the ride’s response and versatility; it’s not a radical departure from the Byzance line, but a refined version optimized for his style and a wider range of playing scenarios.

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