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10 Best Cymbal Sets 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Meinl Cymbals Super Set Box Pack with 14” Hihats, 20” Ride, 16” Crash, 18” Crash, 16” China, and a 10” Splash – HCS Traditional Finish Brass – Made In Germany, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (HCS-SCS)

The Meinl Super Set Box Pack offers a solid 6-piece cymbal set designed for beginner to intermediate drummers who want better sound and durability than the typical starter cymbals. Made from MS63 brass alloy, these cymbals produce a clean, bright tone with crispness that avoids harsh, piercing overtones. The set includes all essential cymbals for a full kit—14" hihats, 20" ride, 16" and 18" crashes—plus effect cymbals like a 16" china and 10" splash, giving you flexibility in your sound. Each cymbal has a lacquered finish that not only protects them but also gives a shiny look when light hits the surface.

Weighing around 15 pounds total, the set has a sturdy feel and can handle regular playing without easily denting or bending, which is common with cheaper options. Because these are made in Germany by a reputable brand with decades of experience, they offer a longer lifespan and sound quality closer to higher-end cymbals. On the downside, brass cymbals generally don’t have the warmth or complex tones of professional bronze models, so as your skill and needs grow, you might find them limiting.

Also, while the 6-piece setup covers a lot, some drummers might want more variety or different sizes. This set is a great step up from basic starter packs, especially for players wanting reliable, bright-sounding cymbals that look good and hold up well during practice and gigs.

#3

Meinl Cymbal Set Box Pack with 14” Hihats, 20” Ride, 16” Crash, Plus a FREE 10” Splash – HCS Traditional Finish Brass – Made In Germany, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (HCS141620+10)

Rating
9.7
Size
Finish

Most important from
541 reviews

Size
The 20-inch ride cymbal delivers warm tones with a clear bell and balanced wash, making it versatile for genres from soft jazz to hard rock.
Finish
The traditional brass finish not only looks appealing but also contributes to a clean ping and subtle overtones that keep the sound musical and not harsh.

The Meinl HCS Cymbal Set is a solid choice for beginner to intermediate drummers looking for a step up from basic starter cymbals. Made from MS63 brass alloy, these cymbals deliver a bright, clean sound that’s more musical and less harsh than typical entry-level options. The set includes key sizes: 14-inch hihats, a 16-inch crash, a 20-inch ride, and a bonus 10-inch splash cymbal, giving you a well-rounded variety for most playing styles. Their traditional finish not only looks attractive with a nice shine but also helps produce clear tones without annoying overtones.

At about 10 pounds total weight, the cymbals feel sturdy enough to handle regular practice without denting or bending easily, which can be a problem with cheaper sets. Since they're made in Germany by a company with decades of experience, these cymbals offer good quality and durability for the price. On the downside, because they are brass, they won't have the rich complexity and warmth you might find in more expensive bronze cymbals, and advanced players might outgrow the sound as they develop.

For those just starting out or upgrading from the very basic cymbals included with drum kits, this set provides a dependable, versatile sound with a nice balance between value and quality.

Rating
9.7
Size
Finish

Most important from
541 reviews

Size
The 20-inch ride cymbal delivers warm tones with a clear bell and balanced wash, making it versatile for genres from soft jazz to hard rock.
Finish
The traditional brass finish not only looks appealing but also contributes to a clean ping and subtle overtones that keep the sound musical and not harsh.

Buying Guide for the Best Cymbal Sets

Choosing the right cymbal set can significantly enhance your drumming experience. Cymbals come in various types, sizes, and materials, each contributing to the overall sound and feel of your drum kit. When selecting a cymbal set, it's important to consider your playing style, the genre of music you play, and the sound you want to achieve. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
MaterialCymbals are typically made from bronze or brass. Bronze cymbals are more durable and produce a richer, more complex sound, making them a popular choice for professional drummers. Brass cymbals are generally more affordable and produce a brighter, less complex sound, which can be suitable for beginners or those on a budget. If you are a beginner or play in a casual setting, brass cymbals might be a good starting point. For more advanced players or those seeking a professional sound, bronze cymbals are the way to go.
SizeCymbals come in various sizes, typically measured in inches. The size of a cymbal affects its volume, sustain, and pitch. Smaller cymbals (under 16 inches) produce a higher pitch and shorter sustain, making them ideal for fast, intricate playing. Medium-sized cymbals (16-20 inches) offer a balanced sound with moderate sustain, suitable for a wide range of music styles. Larger cymbals (over 20 inches) produce a lower pitch and longer sustain, providing a powerful, resonant sound. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve when choosing the size of your cymbals.
TypeThere are several types of cymbals, each serving a different purpose in a drum kit. Hi-hats consist of two cymbals mounted on a stand and are essential for keeping time and adding rhythmic accents. Crash cymbals are used for accenting and creating dynamic changes in the music. Ride cymbals provide a steady rhythmic pattern and are often used for keeping time. Splash cymbals are smaller and produce a quick, splashy sound, ideal for accents. China cymbals have a distinctive, trashy sound and are used for special effects. Consider the types of cymbals you need based on your playing style and the music you play.
WeightThe weight of a cymbal affects its sound and response. Light cymbals are more responsive and produce a softer, more delicate sound, making them suitable for jazz and softer music styles. Medium-weight cymbals offer a balanced sound and are versatile enough for various music genres. Heavy cymbals produce a louder, more powerful sound with longer sustain, making them ideal for rock and heavy metal. Consider the genre of music you play and the sound you want to achieve when choosing the weight of your cymbals.
FinishCymbals come in different finishes, such as traditional, brilliant, and raw. The finish affects the cymbal's appearance and sound. Traditional finishes provide a warm, classic sound with a natural look. Brilliant finishes are polished to a shiny appearance and produce a brighter, more cutting sound. Raw finishes have an unpolished, earthy look and produce a darker, more complex sound. Choose a finish that complements your playing style and the sound you want to achieve.

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