Crash cymbals, the cymbals used to punctuate music with an explosion of sound, are an essential part of any drum kit. Selecting the right cymbal for your kit requires a bit of thought beforehand. Let's examine what should should go into the selection process.
Instructions
Select a Crash Cymbal For a Drum Set
1. For best results, have access to a large number of crash cymbals, preferably at a music store. While you can shop online or through a catalog, there's no substitute for actually hearing a cymbal in person.
2. Consider the kind of music you'll be playing. Larger, heavier cymbals will give you maximum power and sound, which may be good for playing with a rock band in a large hall. But if your choice of music and venue are different, you'll have different needs. For jazz playing, a smaller, thinner cymbal will respond quickly and not overwhelm the other instruments. Likewise, playing in a studio calls for a smaller and thinner cymbal.
3. Depending on the composition of metals and other factors in cymbal design, a crash cymbal may have either a "bright" or a "dark" sound. As you test different cymbals, listen for this subtle difference, and consider which is more appropriate to your needs.
4. Consult with knowledgeable drummers and cymbal companies in making your selections. An experienced musician can pass along their experience and expertise, and cymbal companies often design cymbals for specific needs and styles of music. Consider their advice and knowledge.
