Splash Cymbal roundup
Splash Cymbal: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Buying a splash cymbal involves fewer variables than purchasing a crash or ride, but the differences between price tiers and manufacturers are real and matter in live and studio contexts. Understanding the key factors before purchasing saves time and avoids the common mistake of choosing purely on price.
Alloy and Price Tier
The most important factor is the alloy. B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) is the professional standard — it has a complex, warm character with faster response and more overtone content than lower-spec materials. B8 bronze produces a brighter, more aggressive sound with less complexity. Brass alloys are found only at the budget end and are not suitable for professional use. For a splash cymbal at any serious level, a B20 instrument is the correct choice. B8 models can work adequately in a rock or pop context where the extra brightness is acceptable, but they are not suitable for jazz or nuanced studio applications. The overview article covers the full range of types and sizes: see the overview. For setup and technique guidance, the beginner's guide is the appropriate starting point.
Brand Recommendations by Category
For general use in pop, rock and live performance: the Sabian AAX Splash (8 or 10 inch), Zildjian A Custom Splash and Meinl Byzance Traditional Splash are all well-regarded in the £80–150 range. For jazz and lower-volume contexts: the Zildjian K Splash, Paiste 2002 Splash and Sabian HHX Splash are the standard reference points, typically running £100–180. For entry-level and student use: the Meinl HCS Splash, Sabian SBR Splash and Zildjian Planet Z Splash provide usable sounds at under £40. These are adequate for learning and practice but lack the character and response of professional instruments.
Size Selection
Most splash cymbals are sold in sizes from 6 to 12 inches. An 8-inch or 10-inch model covers the broadest range of applications and is the sensible starting point for a drummer adding one for the first time. A 6-inch model is very short and dry — it suits jazz and intricate drumming styles but can disappear in louder or denser musical contexts. A 12-inch model behaves more like a small crash and suits applications where more volume and sustain are needed. If you are purchasing a second splash cymbal for variety, selecting a size two inches away from your existing one provides a useful contrast in sound.
New vs Second-Hand
Second-hand professional cymbals are excellent value. B20 bronze holds up well over time — the main issues to check are cracks (which propagate and eventually render the cymbal unusable), keyholing around the mounting hole, and significant denting from heavy strikes. A clean second-hand B20 Zildjian, Sabian or Meinl at half the new price is typically a better purchase than a new B8 budget instrument. Buying in person is preferable — small hairline cracks are difficult to spot in photographs.
Comments