How to Measure the Bell on a Cymbal

Measure your cymbal's bell to determine its sound.

As many professional drummers will attest, cymbal collecting is an art form. Many elements contribute to a cymbal's overall sound. This includes everything from the cymbal's construction to the age of the cymbal as well as the size of the cymbal's bell. The bell is the convex hump near the center of the cymbal that makes a high-pitched, bell-like ring when struck with a drum stick or mallet. The size and shape of the bell largely determines the type of sound the bell will make.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Lay the cymbal on a flat surface with the bell side of the cymbal facing upward.

2. Locate the base of the bell near the center of the cymbal.

3. Measure from the base on one side of the bell to the base area on the opposite side of the bell. Use a measuring tape and measure straight across the bell curve directly in the center of the bell. Write down this measurement.

Tips & Warnings

• Larger cymbal bells are usually louder.

References

• Dimensions Guide: Cymbal Size Guide
• Vintage Cymbal Guide: Zildjian