When
it comes to cymbals more doesn't mean better. Each type of cymbal has a unique
sound and selecting the correct sound for you is the real trick. When looking
for a cymbal, first you need to know what kind of sound you are looking for, are
you playing in a jazz band or a heavy metal band. If you don't know take time
to figure it out, because buying cymbals is a costly affair and you want to make
sure you pick the right one.
When buying a cymbal, make sure you play the
cymbal to hear what it sounds like, too often you see people buying cymbals without
knowing what it actually sounds like. Even better is to try several at the same
time, that way you can really compare the sounds and it makes it easier to find
what your looking for. A good cymbal buy can last you a very long time, and good
cymbal care can extend that.
A good step in the
cymbal direction for beginners is to buy the cymbal box sets, most of the major
cymbal makers have them. They normally include a hi hat, crash and ride and are
good value for money.
Elements of a cymbal
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| This is the centre of the cymbal. This area can be played to get a completely different sound to the rest of the cymbal. |
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| This is where you would hit to hear what the cymbal sounds like. |
The following effect the sound of a cymbal
Size - The bigger a cymbal gets, the louder it gets.
Thickness - Thin cymbals respond quickly.
Bell - The size of a cymbals bell will also effect the sound of a cymbal.
Types of Cymbals
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| Crashes are normally have a fast response and are used to accentuate what you are playing. |
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These are normally much bigger than a crash and are normally used for playing patterns. |
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| Hi Hats come in pairs and are used by a hi hat stand with a foot pedal. The combinations of the hi hat and the hi hat foot can be used to created many different sounds. |
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These are usually quite small and are extremely quick and can be used also to accentuate the same as a crash. |
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These cymbals have an outward curve towards the edge of the cymbal. They can be used like a crash or a ride, depending on the size. |
Some well known cymbal brands are: Paiste, Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, Istanbul and UFIP.
If you have any questions or comments, mail info@sadrummer.com
