How to Decide Between Cymbal Types

Cymbals come in a large variety of sizes and provide a wide range of sounds. Knowing which sound each cymbal provides will help the drummer determine what type of cymbals to set up with the drum kit. From hi-hat to Chinese gong, the drummer has a smorgasbord of cymbals to choose from.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine what style of music will be played. For example, rock music typically uses splash, ride, crash and hi-hat cymbal types. Also consider where the cymbals will be positioned during your drum kit setup.

2. Notice the hi-hat cymbal is actually two cymbals in one. The two cymbals hit each other when the pedal is pushed down. Hi-hats are generally used to keep the tempo of the song. They're usually pressed together and struck with a drumstick.

3. Visualize the difference between the ride and crash cymbal types. The ride is larger in diameter and provides a ringing tone when struck. Several different tones can be accomplished on the ride cymbal. Near the top of the cymbal, a bell sound rings out. Toward the rim, a reverberating sound is produced. Like the hi-hat, the ride is used to keep the tempo of the song. Ride cymbals, however, are generally used during the chorus of a song.

4. Understand the tones crash cymbals make. Crash cymbals come in different sizes and tones. It's important to have cymbals which sound differently so there is a distinction between the two. Most drummers prefer to have a cymbal which provides a splashy, clear sound as well as a cymbal which provides a darker, harder tone.

Tips & Warnings

• The genre of music being played will affect the desired cymbal tones. Still, almost every drum kit has a hi-hat, ride and crash cymbal as a minimum in his drum kit setup.
• Visit a music store and strike the cymbals to hear the different tones each provides.