10 Best Hi Hat Cymbals 2026 in the United States

The Meinl Cymbals B16EDMTH Byzance Extra Dry 16-Inch Medium Thin Hi-Hat Cymbal Pair is a high-quality choice for drummers seeking a versatile and unique sound. Hand hammered in Turkey from cast B20 Bronze, these cymbals offer a refined yet raw aesthetic. Their 16-inch size makes them suitable for a range of musical styles, while the medium-thin weight provides an effortless sound with fine stick definition and a blend of smoothness and dryness.

The sound profile is earthy and mellow at low volumes but can become quite explosive when played intensely, making them great for both nuanced playing and powerful performances. The unfinished, raw finish adds to the unique character of these hi-hats, though it might not appeal to everyone aesthetically. Weighing 4.4 pounds, they are relatively easy to handle and install, though some users might find them slightly heavier than other options.

The cymbals are highly regarded for their ability to add texture and definition to drumming. However, the lack of included components might be a minor inconvenience, especially for beginners. Well-suited for professional and semi-professional drummers, these hi-hats are endorsed by notable drummers like Benny Greb and Mike Johnston, ensuring their credibility in the drumming community.

The Byzance 14" Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi-Hats by Meinl are crafted from B20 bronze, a high-quality alloy known for producing rich and complex tones. At 14 inches, they offer a versatile size that suits many playing styles, particularly for drummers seeking detailed sound. These cymbals are hand-hammered in Turkey, which adds uniqueness to each pair and helps create an organic, uneven thickness. This contributes to their signature dry, fast, and trashy sound with deep complexity, making them ideal if you want crisp stick definition and a quick response.

The unusual finish is mostly raw and unlathed on the top, which shortens the sound and boosts dry articulation—perfect for players who like controlled, precise hi-hat sounds without too much sustain. The underside is fully lathed, balancing sharp attack with warm lows, and the ride area is left unlathed for even better stick feel and control. Weighing about 5 pounds, they are medium thin, so they’re light enough for expressive playing but still offer enough body to work well in various genres.

One potential downside is that the very dry and trashy character might not suit drummers looking for bright, shimmering hi-hats with longer sustain. Also, the unfinished look might not appeal to those who prefer shiny, polished cymbals. However, the 2-year warranty adds peace of mind, and the craftsmanship ensures durability. These hi-hats are well suited to drummers who want a modern, articulate sound with plenty of texture and a quick, controlled decay. They excel in nuanced, dynamic playing styles but might be less suitable if you prefer lush, ringing cymbals.

The Meinl Byzance 14-Inch Traditional Medium Hi-Hat Cymbals are hand hammered from high-quality B20 bronze, a material prized for its rich and complex sound. At 14 inches, they hit a popular size that balances versatility and definition, making them suitable for many music styles. Weighing about 5.7 pounds, these cymbals offer a medium weight that contributes to their bright yet warm sound character. Their fully lathed finish gives them a classic look and smooth feel, while the visible hand hammering adds subtle dark tones and texture to the sound.

The sonic profile is quite balanced — they produce a crisp, clear attack with a sizzle that is lively but not overwhelming, and a blend of bright and low undertones that helps them sit well in a mix. This makes them a great choice if you want hi-hats that can handle different dynamic levels and musical genres, from jazz to rock. On the downside, being hand hammered and made from premium bronze, these hi-hats come with a price tag that might be high for beginners or casual players. Also, some drummers might prefer a heavier or lighter feel depending on their personal style, so these medium hats may not suit everyone perfectly.

If you’re looking for high-quality hi-hats with a traditional yet versatile sound and a smooth playing surface, the Meinl Byzance B14MH is a reliable option favored by professional drummers worldwide.