The Ultimate Guide to Meinl Cymbals: Series Explained, Sounds & How to Choose
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This guide breaks down the full range of Meinl cymbals, explaining the differences between each series, their unique sounds and the players they are designed for. Whether you're building your first setup or refining your sound, it will help you choose the right cymbals for your kit.
Looking for a specific Meinl cymbal range? Jump straight to the section you're interested in below.
Artist Signature Cymbals & Concept Models
Which Meinl Cymbals Are Right For Me?
Meinl Cymbal Series Explained
Over the last two decades, Meinl cymbals have become one of the most influential and widely played cymbal brands in modern drumming. From major touring artists and recording professionals through to students building their very first setup, Meinl cymbals can now be found in virtually every corner of the drumming world.
Part of the reason for this popularity is the sheer diversity of the Meinl catalogue. From affordable beginner-friendly cymbals through to hand-hammered professional models, each Meinl cymbal series is designed with a particular sound and player in mind. Some ranges focus on bright projection and cutting power, others prioritise darker, more complex tones, whilst some are designed to offer the controlled and articulate response that has become increasingly popular in modern recording and live performance environments.
At Graham Russell Drums, we're a team of working drummers, and helping players navigate the different Meinl cymbal ranges is something we do every day. Choosing cymbals isn't simply a case of picking a brand or a finish. The alloy, weight, hammering and profile of a cymbal all influence the way it feels, responds and sits within a musical setting. Understanding those differences can make it much easier to find cymbals that suit your playing style and the music you play.
In this guide, we'll explore the major Meinl cymbal series, explain how they differ from one another and help you understand which ranges might be best suited to your needs. We'll also look at why Meinl cymbals have become so popular amongst modern drummers, what makes certain ranges stand out, and how to choose the right cymbals for your own setup.
Whether you're buying your first cymbal pack, upgrading an existing collection or looking to explore the world of Meinl Cymbals, this guide will help you make a more informed decision. You can also view the whole range of meinl cymbals, both New and Used on our website!
Why Have Meinl Cymbals Become So Popular?
If you've spent any time around modern drumming over the last 15 to 20 years, you've probably noticed that Meinl cymbals seem to be everywhere. From major festival stages and arena tours through to drum clinics, YouTube channels and recording studios, the brand has experienced remarkable growth and has become one of the most recognisable names in contemporary cymbal design.
For many drummers, the question isn't simply what are Meinl cymbals? but rather why are Meinl cymbals so popular? The answer isn't down to a single product or marketing campaign. Instead, it's a combination of innovative cymbal design, a diverse range, influential artist relationships and a willingness to embrace changing trends in modern drum sounds.
One of the biggest factors behind Meinl's rise has been the success of the Byzance series. Whilst many cymbal manufacturers have traditionally focused on brighter, more conventional cymbal sounds, Meinl recognised a growing demand for cymbals with greater complexity, darker tonal characteristics and more controlled sustain. The Byzance range helped introduce many drummers to sounds that felt more expressive, musical and responsive, particularly in studio environments where excessive volume and wash can often become problematic.
Artist relationships have also played a significant role. Drummers such as Benny Greb, Matt Garstka, Mike Johnston, Luke Holland and many others have helped showcase what modern Meinl cymbals are capable of. Importantly, many of these artists haven't simply attached their names to existing products. Instead, they've worked closely with Meinl to develop entirely new cymbal concepts that have gone on to become some of the most respected and widely used models in the catalogue.
At Graham Russell Drums, we regularly see players arrive with a particular cymbal sound in mind, only to discover that Meinl offers multiple routes to achieve it. Some are drawn to the warmth and complexity of Byzance cymbals, whilst others prefer the cleaner, more modern character of Pure Alloy models. The depth of the catalogue means there's rarely a single "Meinl sound", which is one of the reasons the brand appeals to such a broad range of drummers.
Entry Level Meinl Cymbals
Designed to provide an affordable and reliable introduction to cymbal playing, Meinl HCS cymbals are aimed at students, beginners and drummers building their first complete setup. Whilst professional cymbals often receive the most attention online, choosing the right beginner cymbals can have a huge impact on how enjoyable and rewarding those early years of playing become.
The Meinl HCS range is manufactured from a brass alloy and is designed to deliver a bright, clear and immediate response. Compared to more expensive bronze cymbals, HCS models tend to offer a simpler tonal character with less complexity and fewer overtones. For newer players, however, this can be a real advantage. The cymbals respond easily, project clearly and provide a predictable playing experience, allowing players to focus on developing technique, timing and musical confidence rather than fighting against their equipment.
One of the biggest strengths of the HCS range is the variety available. Rather than offering just a handful of cymbals, Meinl has developed the series into a comprehensive collection that includes hi-hats, crashes, rides, splashes, chinas and complete cymbal packs. This allows drummers to build a complete setup using matching cymbals without immediately stepping into professional-level price points.
At Graham Russell Drums, we often recommend HCS cymbals to drummers purchasing their first acoustic kit or looking to build a complete cymbal setup without immediately investing in professional-level cymbals. They offer a dependable starting point, consistent performance and a straightforward playing experience that allows drummers to focus on what matters most — spending time behind the kit and developing their skills.
As players gain experience, many eventually begin exploring cymbal ranges that offer greater tonal complexity, wider dynamic range and more specialised sounds. This is where Meinl's mid-range and professional lines begin to open up, with series such as Classics Custom, Pure Alloy and Byzance offering increasingly sophisticated sounds and playing experiences.
For drummers looking for a reliable and affordable starting point, however, the Meinl HCS series remains one of the best and most accessible cymbal ranges available today.
Classics Custom Series
For many drummers, the Meinl Classics Custom family represents the first step into the world of serious bronze cymbals. Sitting above the HCS range and below Meinl's flagship hand-hammered offerings, Classics Custom cymbals have become one of the most popular and diverse families within the entire Meinl series.
Like many of Meinl's cymbal ranges, Classics Custom cymbals are made in Germany and manufactured from B12 bronze alloy, consiting of 88% copper and 12% tin. This alloy gives them a fuller and more refined sound than entry-level brass cymbals whilst retaining the brightness, projection and clarity that many drummers look for in modern cymbal designs. Combined with Meinl's precision manufacturing processes, the result is a family of cymbals that feels consistent, powerful and dependable across a huge variety of musical situations.
One of the biggest strengths of the Classics Custom range is the variety available. Rather than offering a single sound profile, Meinl has developed several distinct sub-series, each designed to suit different playing styles and tonal preferences. Whether you're looking for bright and articulate cymbals, darker contemporary sounds or maximum projection for high-volume music, there is likely a Classics Custom model that fits the bill.
At Graham Russell Drums, we often recommend Classics Custom cymbals to drummers who have moved beyond their first setup and are beginning to develop stronger preferences about how they want their cymbals to sound. They offer a noticeable step up in tonal sophistication whilst remaining significantly more accessible than many premium hand-hammered cymbal ranges.
For many players, Classics Custom cymbals represent one of the strongest value propositions within the Meinl catalogue, combining German manufacturing, B12 bronze construction and a huge variety of sound profiles at a price point that remains accessible to a wide range of drummers.
Classics Custom Brilliant
The standard Classics Custom Brilliant series forms the foundation of the entire family. Featuring a mirror-like brilliant finish and a clear, focused voice, these cymbals are designed to deliver plenty of projection, articulation and shimmer.
Crashes respond quickly with a bright attack, rides offer excellent stick definition and hi-hats provide a crisp, articulate feel under the stick. Their versatile nature makes them particularly well suited to drummers playing rock, pop, function work and general live performance where clarity and projection are important.
For players looking for a modern, bright cymbal sound that remains versatile across a wide variety of musical situations, Classics Custom Brilliant provides an excellent starting point.
Classics Custom Dark
The Classics Custom Dark series has become one of Meinl's most successful cymbal lines and is often the range that introduces drummers to darker and more contemporary cymbal sounds, whilst still retaining the projection, attack and volume that have made the Classics Custom family so popular. The Dark series incorporates additional hammering and wide-blade lathing to create a warmer, more complex and slightly lower-pitched response. The result is a cymbal that feels darker and more aggressive than the Brilliant models whilst maintaining the power and presence required for modern rock, pop and heavier styles of music.
Unlike traditional jazz-oriented dark cymbals, Classics Custom Dark models are designed to remain cutting and articulate in louder musical settings. Crashes deliver a powerful attack with a darker overall character, rides retain excellent stick definition and hi-hats provide plenty of presence without sounding overly bright or harsh.
At Graham Russell Drums, Classics Custom Dark cymbals are often popular with players who enjoy the attack and projection of modern cymbals but want a darker overall tonal character than traditional brilliant-finished rock cymbals can provide.
Classics Custom Dual
The Classics Custom Dual series offers one of the most distinctive voices within the entire Classics Custom family. Combining a dark centre with lathed and polished outer edges, these cymbals deliver a unique balance of warmth, attack and complexity.
Dual cymbals typically begin with a warm fundamental tone before responding with a fast, explosive attack when crashed. The darker centre contributes depth and character, whilst the lathed outer edge helps maintain responsiveness and projection. This combination creates a cymbal that feels equally comfortable in the studio and on stage.
The Dual range has become particularly popular amongst drummers who want modern versatility without committing fully to either bright or dark cymbal territory. It offers a sophisticated blend of warmth, punch and musicality that works across a surprisingly broad range of styles.
Classics Custom Extreme Metal
As the name suggests, the Classics Custom Extreme Metal series is designed for drummers who demand maximum volume, projection and cut.
Built upon the same bright and articulate foundation as the standard Classics Custom range, Extreme Metal cymbals take those characteristics even further. Heavier weights and increased power allow them to cut through dense mixes and compete with high-volume amplified instruments without sacrificing clarity or definition.
Although particularly popular amongst rock and metal drummers, the Extreme Metal series can appeal to any player who values projection, articulation and the ability to be heard clearly in demanding performance environments. If your cymbals need to sit above distorted guitars, powerful bass rigs and energetic live mixes, this is the most aggressive member of the Classics Custom family.
Pure Alloy Series
The Meinl Pure Alloy series occupies a unique position within the wider Meinl cymbal catalogue. Whilst Classics Custom cymbals are known for their projection, attack and modern cutting power, and Byzance cymbals are often associated with darker, more complex and characterful sounds, Pure Alloy cymbals sit comfortably between the two. The result is a family of cymbals that prioritises balance, versatility and refinement without becoming overly specialised in any one direction.
Manufactured in Germany from B12 Pure Alloy bronze and shaped through a combination of modern production techniques and hammering, Pure Alloy cymbals are designed to deliver a smooth, musical response across a wide range of playing situations. Whilst Pure Alloy and Classics Custom cymbals both utilise B12 bronze, the two ranges are designed with very different goals in mind. Where Classics Custom cymbals focus on projection and attack, Pure Alloy cymbals place a greater emphasis on tonal balance, dynamic control and overall refinement.
One of the defining characteristics of the Pure Alloy series is its versatility. Crashes respond easily without feeling overly aggressive, rides offer excellent stick definition alongside a smooth and controlled wash, and hi-hats deliver a crisp, refined sound that remains articulate at both low and high playing volumes. Rather than excelling in one specific area, Pure Alloy cymbals are designed to perform consistently across a huge range of musical situations.
At Graham Russell Drums, Pure Alloy cymbals are often popular with drummers who need one setup to cover a variety of gigs and musical styles. Whether you're playing function work, theatre shows, recording sessions, covers gigs or contemporary live music, Pure Alloy cymbals have a remarkable ability to adapt without ever feeling out of place.
Pure Alloy
The standard Pure Alloy series is built around balance, clarity and musicality. These cymbals produce a smooth, shimmering response with a full tonal range and medium sustain, making them exceptionally adaptable across virtually every style of music.
Unlike cymbals that lean heavily towards either brightness or darkness, Pure Alloy models occupy a sweet spot that allows them to blend naturally into a mix whilst still retaining enough personality and character to remain inspiring under the stick. Crashes feel effortless yet powerful, rides combine articulation with a balanced wash, and hi-hats provide a clean, refined definition that remains consistent across different dynamic levels.
For drummers searching for one cymbal range capable of covering almost any musical situation, the standard Pure Alloy series is one of the most complete and versatile options within the Meinl catalogue.
Pure Alloy Custom
The Pure Alloy Custom series builds upon the balanced foundation of the standard range whilst introducing a slightly warmer, more controlled overall response.
Compared with standard Pure Alloy models, Pure Alloy Custom cymbals produce a softer attack, a warmer body and a faster decay. This gives them a slightly smoother and more refined feel under the stick whilst retaining the shimmer, articulation and musicality that Pure Alloy cymbals are known for. The quicker decay also helps create a more controlled overall response, making them particularly appealing to drummers who want clarity and definition without excessive wash.
Visually, the series is distinguished by Meinl's striking Custom Smoked Bronze finish on the top surface, paired with a brilliant finish underneath. Whilst this gives the cymbals a distinctive appearance, the appeal of Pure Alloy Custom extends far beyond aesthetics alone. The combination of a warmer voice, softer attack and faster decay gives the range its own identity within the Pure Alloy family.
For drummers looking for a modern cymbal sound that combines versatility, refinement and a touch more warmth than the standard Pure Alloy range, Pure Alloy Custom offers an excellent alternative.
Byzance Series
For many drummers, the Byzance series represents the heart of the Meinl cymbal catalogue. Widely regarded as one of the most respected professional cymbal ranges available today, Byzance cymbals have become a favourite amongst everyone from touring musicians and recording artists through to dedicated enthusiasts searching for a more expressive and characterful cymbal sound.
Unlike the German-made Classics Custom and Pure Alloy ranges, Byzance cymbals are crafted in Turkey from B20 bronze using traditional hand-hammering and lathing techniques. This manufacturing process gives each cymbal its own unique personality, resulting in the rich musicality, complexity and feel that many drummers associate with premium hand-crafted cymbals.
At Graham Russell Drums, Byzance cymbals are often the range that drummers gravitate towards when they're looking for greater nuance, character and individuality in their sound. Whilst they occupy a different space within the Meinl catalogue to the German-made Pure Alloy and Classics Custom ranges, many players are drawn to Byzance cymbals for their additional character, individuality and hand-crafted feel.
Byzance Traditional
The Byzance Traditional series is often considered the benchmark sound of the entire Byzance family. If you're new to Byzance and unsure where to begin, Traditional is usually the most logical starting point.
Hand-hammered and hand-lathed in Turkey from B20 bronze, Byzance Traditional cymbals feature a classic traditional finish and narrow-blade lathing. Together, these elements help create the balanced, highly musical response that has made the Traditional series one of the most popular and versatile ranges within the entire Byzance catalogue.
One of the defining characteristics of the Traditional series is its adaptability. Crashes respond smoothly and openly, rides provide a balanced blend of stick definition and wash, whilst hi-hats offer a clear, controlled response that remains musical across a wide dynamic range. Rather than excelling in one highly specialised area, Traditional cymbals are designed to feel at home in almost any musical setting.
The traditional finish, narrow-blade lathing and hand-crafted construction contribute to a sound that feels open, expressive and remarkably versatile without leaning too heavily towards any particular genre. Whether you're playing rock, pop, funk, jazz, worship music or studio sessions, Traditional cymbals offer the kind of flexibility that allows them to adapt comfortably to the demands of the music.
At Graham Russell Drums, Byzance Traditional cymbals are often popular with drummers looking for a professional cymbal that can comfortably cover almost any musical situation without feeling overly specialised. They provide an excellent foundation for a complete cymbal setup and are often the range we recommend to players taking their first step into the world of hand-crafted B20 bronze cymbals.
For many drummers, Byzance Traditional represents the purest expression of what the Byzance family is all about: versatility, musicality and the unmistakable feel of a hand-crafted cymbal.
Byzance Brilliant
The Byzance Brilliant series takes the balanced and versatile foundation of the Traditional range and adds an extra layer of polish, both visually and sonically. If Byzance Traditional represents the benchmark sound of the family, Brilliant offers a slightly more refined and shimmering variation on that formula.
Like the Traditional series, Byzance Brilliant cymbals are crafted in Turkey from B20 bronze using traditional hand-hammering and narrow-blade lathing. The key difference lies in the highly polished brilliant finish, which gives the cymbals their striking mirror-like appearance and contributes to a sound that feels smoother and more polished overall.
Compared with their Traditional counterparts, Brilliant models tend to produce a touch more shimmer and a slightly more refined response whilst retaining the musicality and versatility that make the Byzance range so popular. Crashes feel smooth and expressive, rides maintain excellent articulation and wash, whilst hi-hats deliver a crisp and detailed response that remains highly musical across a wide range of playing styles.
Meinl also offers selected Heavy Hammered Brilliant models, which feature additional weight and hammering to increase projection, cut and overall power. These cymbals can be particularly appealing to players who need the musicality of Byzance but require extra volume and presence in louder musical environments.
For drummers who love the balanced nature of Byzance Traditional but would like a touch more shimmer and refinement, Byzance Brilliant provides a natural next step within the family.
Byzance Dark
The Byzance Dark series is one of the most influential and recognisable families within the entire Meinl catalogue. For many drummers, these cymbals represent one of the sounds most closely associated with modern cymbal design, combining darkness, complexity and control whilst retaining the projection and presence required for contemporary performance.
Whilst the Traditional and Brilliant series are built around balance and versatility, the Dark series takes the Byzance concept in a more modern direction. Featuring largely unlathed surfaces, these cymbals have a distinctive appearance and a darker overall tonal character. The result is a sound that feels deeper, more complex and more controlled without sacrificing clarity or responsiveness.
One of the defining characteristics of the Dark series is the way the cymbals respond and decay. Crashes tend to open up quickly before getting out of the way, delivering a powerful attack without excessive sustain. This makes them particularly effective in modern musical settings where drummers often want impact and character without overwhelming the mix.
Despite their darker voice, Byzance Dark cymbals still provide excellent projection and articulation. Rides offer strong stick definition alongside a rich, complex wash, whilst hi-hats deliver clarity, cut and presence without sounding overly bright. This balance of darkness and power is a major reason why the series has become so widely used across a broad range of musical styles.
At Graham Russell Drums, Byzance Dark cymbals are often popular with drummers looking for a modern cymbal sound that feels expressive and characterful whilst remaining versatile enough for both live and studio use. They work particularly well in contemporary rock, alternative, fusion, gospel and worship settings, but their musical nature allows them to adapt comfortably to many different genres.
Byzance Vintage
The Byzance Vintage series occupies a unique place within the Meinl catalogue. Designed to capture some of the character associated with older, well-played cymbals, the Vintage family combines traditional craftsmanship with modern cymbal design to create sounds that feel familiar, expressive and comfortably broken-in from the very first note.
The origins of the Vintage range can be traced back to one of Meinl's most influential cymbals: the Benny Greb Sand Ride. Developed in collaboration with the renowned drummer and educator, the Sand Ride quickly gained a reputation for its controlled response and musical versatility. Its success ultimately led to the development of the wider Byzance Vintage family, which has since become one of the defining voices within the Meinl catalogue.
One of the most distinctive features of many Vintage models is their sandblasted finish. During the sandblasting process, fine abrasive material is blasted across the cymbal's surface under pressure, creating the characteristic matte appearance associated with cymbals such as the Sand Ride. Whilst the finish is visually striking, it also contributes to the overall feel and response of the cymbal, helping to create a slightly drier, more controlled sound with reduced high-frequency overtones compared with a traditionally finished cymbal.
Compared with the Traditional, Brilliant and Dark series, Vintage cymbals tend to feel softer, lower-pitched and more controlled under the stick. There is a subtle "played-in" quality to the response that many drummers find immediately inspiring, as though the cymbals have already matured and settled into their voice over years of playing. Crashes often respond with a smooth, musical attack, rides offer excellent articulation without excessive wash, and hi-hats provide a warm and focused response that sits comfortably within a mix.
Within the Vintage family, Meinl offers several distinct approaches. Sand models feature narrow-blade lathing combined with the signature sandblasted finish, whilst Vintage Pure cymbals take things even further with largely raw, unlathed surfaces. The result is a family of cymbals that offers a broad range of controlled, characterful sounds whilst maintaining a shared emphasis on musicality, feel and individuality.
At Graham Russell Drums, Byzance Vintage cymbals are often popular with drummers looking for something that feels a little different from traditional cymbal designs. Their combination of warmth, control and personality has made them a favourite amongst players who value touch, expression and character as much as outright projection and volume.
Byzance Extra Dry
Although Meinl Extra Dry cymbals often appear raw and unfinished, they are amongst the most refined and deliberately voiced cymbals that Meinl produces. Their largely unlathed surfaces and raw finish contribute to a sound that is fast, controlled and exceptionally responsive, making them particularly appealing to drummers who value clarity, texture and musical detail. Interestingly, whilst the rides are left largely unlathed, the undersides of the hi-hats, crashes, splashes and china cymbals are lathed. This helps balance the dry, earthy character of the series with enough musicality and responsiveness to ensure the cymbals remain expressive and playable across a wide range of musical situations.
The rides within the Extra Dry family deserve special mention. Whilst many cymbal ranges are built around crashes or hi-hats, Extra Dry rides have become some of the most sought-after models in the entire Meinl catalogue. Their combination of crisp stick definition, low pitch and highly controlled wash creates a level of articulation that many drummers find addictive. Unlike the crashes and hi-hats, Extra Dry rides are left largely unlathed, helping preserve the focused response and earthy character that have made them some of the most recognisable rides in modern drumming. Rather than filling the room with overtones, they allow every note to speak clearly, making them particularly popular in studio environments and modern musical settings where detail and control are highly valued.
Byzance Dual
The Byzance Dual series emerged from the popularity of the Extra Dry family and quickly became one of the most recognisable cymbal lines in the modern Meinl catalogue. Combining dryness, complexity and control with flashes of attack and shimmer, Dual cymbals offer a sound that is every bit as distinctive as their appearance.
At first glance, Dual cymbals immediately stand out thanks to their unique design. The central playing area is left raw, showcasing the hand-hammered markings beneath, whilst the outer edge is lathed and finished to a brilliant sheen. Unlike purely cosmetic finishes, the contrasting surfaces are fundamental to both the appearance and sonic character of the series.
The Dual series is built around contrast. The raw centre contributes a low-pitched, earthy and controlled character, whilst the lathed outer edge introduces additional attack, shimmer and projection. This creates a response that feels complex and expressive, often beginning with the earthy, controlled character associated with Extra Dry cymbals before opening up into a more explosive and shimmering voice.
Crashes are particularly impressive within the Dual family, combining a fast response with plenty of musical character and excitement. They retain enough control to avoid becoming overly washy whilst offering a more open and dynamic feel than many Extra Dry models. Rides balance strong stick definition with a controlled wash, whilst hi-hats deliver a versatile blend of articulation, power and character.
At Graham Russell Drums, Byzance Dual cymbals are often popular with drummers who appreciate the dryness and complexity of Extra Dry cymbals but want a little more flexibility and energy from their setup. Their ability to combine modern control with a more open and expressive response has made them a favourite across a wide range of contemporary musical styles.
Byzance Jazz
The Byzance Jazz series is built around expression, nuance and touch. Whilst the name naturally suggests jazz music, it would be a mistake to think of Byzance Jazz cymbals as being exclusively for jazz drummers. At their core, these cymbals are designed around feel, musicality and responsiveness, qualities that can be valuable in almost any musical setting.
Rather than focusing on projection, volume or attack, Byzance Jazz cymbals are designed to respond to the subtleties of a player's touch. Small changes in dynamics, sticking and technique are reflected in the sound, making these cymbals particularly rewarding for drummers who value feel and musical interaction above outright power.
One of the defining characteristics of the Jazz series is its smooth and effortless response. Hi-hats deliver a subtle, refined character that remains articulate without feeling overly aggressive, whilst crashes are known for their famously buttery feel. Thanks to their hand-hammered profiles, they open up easily and respond with a warmth and musicality that encourages dynamic playing.
The ride cymbals within the Jazz family are particularly noteworthy. Meinl has developed a wide variety of complex and highly individual ride cymbals within this range, allowing drummers to explore different levels of wash, articulation and tonal character. Models such as the Jazz Medium Thin Ride and Jazz Club Ride perfectly demonstrate the expressive character that defines the series. For many players, the rides are the heart of the Jazz family, offering a level of individuality and personal expression that encourages drummers to develop their own musical voice behind the kit.
At Graham Russell Drums, Byzance Jazz cymbals are often popular with drummers who prioritise feel, touch and musicality. Whilst they naturally excel in jazz settings, they are equally at home in acoustic music, singer-songwriter performances, theatre work, studio sessions and any situation where nuance and dynamic control are more important than outright volume.
Byzance Foundry reserve
The Byzance Foundry Reserve collection represents the highest level of craftsmanship within the Meinl cymbal catalogue. Produced in limited numbers by some of Meinl's most experienced Turkish cymbalsmiths, these instruments showcase what can be achieved when traditional cymbal making is pursued with an uncompromising focus on artistry, musicality and detail.
Whilst every Byzance cymbal is hand-crafted, Foundry Reserve models take that philosophy even further. Extensive hand-hammering creates deep hammer marks across the bronze, many of which remain clearly visible within the finished cymbal. These impressions are more than a visual feature; they tell the story of the cymbal's creation, with every hammer strike contributing to its complexity, feel and personality.
The result is a collection of cymbals that feel less like products and more like individual musical instruments. No two examples are exactly alike, and many players consider that individuality to be one of the collection's greatest strengths. Rather than pursuing absolute uniformity, Foundry Reserve celebrates the subtle variations and unique character that can only come from skilled hands shaping metal through experience and judgement.
Complementing the extensive hammering is wide-blade lathing, which helps create a beautifully balanced response with a pronounced stick attack sitting above a lush bed of even undertones. The sound is sophisticated, detailed and highly expressive, rewarding drummers who appreciate nuance and the ability to uncover new layers of character the longer they spend with an instrument.
At Graham Russell Drums, Foundry Reserve cymbals are often admired not only for how they sound, but also for the craftsmanship they represent. The collection includes some exceptional ride cymbals, with models such as the Foundry Reserve Light Ride showcasing the depth, complexity and musicality that have made the range so highly regarded amongst discerning drummers and collectors alike.
For many players, Foundry Reserve represents the ultimate expression of the Byzance philosophy. These are functional works of art: cymbals built to be played, recorded and enjoyed, yet carrying a level of artistry and individuality rarely found in modern instrument manufacturing. Combining traditional Turkish craftsmanship, exceptional musicality and extraordinary attention to detail, they stand amongst the finest and most expressive cymbals Meinl produces.
Artist Signature Cymbals & Concept Models
Beyond its core cymbal families, Meinl has built a reputation for working closely with many of the world's leading drummers to develop unique instruments designed around specific sounds, playing styles and musical ideas. These collaborations have resulted in some of the most influential cymbals in the modern drum world, whilst also helping to establish Meinl as one of the most innovative cymbal manufacturers in the industry.
Many of these collaborations take the form of artist signature cymbals. Rather than simply adding an artist's name to an existing product, these models are often developed over months or even years of testing and refinement. The result is a cymbal designed to solve a specific musical challenge or capture a particular playing experience.
Perhaps the most influential example is the Benny Greb Sand Ride, a cymbal whose controlled response, dry character and distinctive sandblasted finish helped shape modern cymbal design and ultimately inspired the development of the wider Byzance Vintage family. Other notable examples include the Mike Johnston Transition Ride, designed to bridge the gap between crash and ride cymbal duties, the Matt Garstka Equilibrium Ride, developed around balance and articulation, and the Chris Coleman C Squared Ride, which explores a highly expressive and versatile ride cymbal voice.
Alongside these signature models, Meinl's Artist Concept collection focuses on experimentation and innovation. This range is home to some of the most creative effects cymbals, stacks and hybrid instruments available today, allowing artists and Meinl's development team to explore sounds that sit outside the boundaries of traditional cymbal design.
The Benny Greb Crasher Hats, for example, were developed to create an ultra-short, dry and highly articulate sound that sits somewhere between a shaker, hi-hat and percussion effect. Built from four separate cymbals working together, they have become a signature part of Greb's modern sound and demonstrate just how far Meinl is willing to push conventional cymbal design.
The Luke Holland Bullet Stack offers a surprisingly versatile voice in a compact format. Capable of producing everything from short, cutting accents to fatter, more expressive tones depending on where it is struck, it has become a popular choice for drummers looking to add an additional layer of colour to their setup without sacrificing valuable space.
Artist Cymbal Packs
Whilst signature cymbals and Artist Concept models focus on individual sounds and musical ideas, Meinl Artist Cymbal Packs take a broader approach by showcasing complete setups curated by some of the company's most influential players. These collections bring together carefully selected cymbals that reflect an artist's approach to sound, offering drummers a proven and professionally curated starting point when building a setup.
Unlike many standard cymbal packs, Meinl Artist Packs are not simply designed around a particular price point or cymbal series. Instead, they provide insight into how some of the world's leading drummers combine different cymbals to create a balanced and musical setup.
The Benny Greb Sand Cymbal Set is a perfect example. Featuring cymbals from the hugely popular Byzance Vintage family, the set captures the dry, musical and highly expressive character that has become synonymous with Greb's playing. For many drummers, it is one of the most accessible ways to experience the distinctive Byzance Vintage sound that has become so closely associated with his approach to the instrument.
Meanwhile, the Thomas Lang Artist Cymbal Pack demonstrates the versatility that has defined Lang's career. Featuring his signature Fast Hi-Hats and Flex Ride, the pack combines strong stick definition, balanced wash and impressive flexibility. Equally at home in rock, pop, fusion, funk and session environments, it remains one of the most adaptable artist-curated setups in the Meinl catalogue.
Which Meinl Cymbals Are Right For Me?
One of the biggest strengths of the Meinl cymbal range is that there is something for every drummer. From affordable beginner cymbals through to hand-crafted Turkish masterpieces, Meinl offers a clear progression through the range, making it easier to find cymbals that suit your playing style, musical tastes and budget.
If you're wondering which Meinl cymbals are right for you, the answer largely depends on what stage you are at in your drumming journey and the sounds you want to hear behind the kit.
If You're Just Starting Out
For beginners, the Meinl HCS range is often the best place to start. Designed to provide an affordable introduction to the world of drumming, HCS cymbals offer excellent value and are available in a variety of complete cymbal packs. They are ideal for lessons, practice, school performances and early gigs, giving new drummers a dependable foundation without requiring a significant investment.
If You Want The Best Value Upgrade
For many drummers, Classics Custom represents the first major step into professional-quality cymbals. Manufactured in Germany from B12 bronze, these cymbals offer a bright, focused sound with plenty of projection and clarity.
The beauty of the Classics Custom range is the variety available. The Classics Custom Brilliant models deliver the shimmering, cutting sound many drummers associate with modern cymbals, whilst Classics Custom Dark adds extra hammering and a darker finish for players who want a more aggressive and contemporary voice. For drummers seeking a balance between warmth and attack, Classics Custom Dual combines dark, complex character with explosive response, making it one of the most versatile cymbal families in the range.
If You Need One Setup To Cover Almost Everything
If we were recommending a single Meinl series to a drummer who plays a wide variety of musical styles, Pure Alloy would be very high on the list.
Manufactured in Germany from Pure Alloy bronze, these cymbals bridge the gap between the brighter Classics Custom range and the darker, more complex world of Byzance. They deliver a smooth, shimmering response with excellent balance, medium sustain and impressive versatility across a wide range of musical situations.
The Pure Alloy Custom models take this a step further, adding a smoked-bronze finish and slightly warmer, softer attack whilst retaining the shimmer and refinement that have made Pure Alloy so popular with modern drummers.
If You Want Premium Hand-Crafted Cymbals
The Byzance Traditional series is often the ideal starting point for drummers entering the world of premium cymbals. Hand-hammered in Turkey from B20 bronze, these cymbals offer a beautifully balanced sound that feels at home in almost any musical setting.
Byzance Traditional cymbals feature a traditional finish and narrow blade lathing, producing the broad, versatile voice that has made them one of the most popular hand-crafted cymbal ranges available today. If you're unsure where to begin within the Byzance family, Traditional is usually the safest and most versatile recommendation.
If You Prefer Darker, More Modern Sounds
This is where Meinl has become particularly influential in recent years. The Byzance Vintage, Extra Dry and Dual families have helped define the sound of modern drumming, each offering a different take on darker, more complex cymbal tones.
Byzance Vintage cymbals deliver the played-in character and musical warmth that many drummers love, whilst Extra Dry offers an incredibly controlled, articulate response with fast decay and exceptional stick definition. Meanwhile, Byzance Dual combines earthy, trashy character with flashes of explosive brilliance, creating one of the most distinctive and instantly recognisable sounds in the entire Meinl catalogue.
If You Appreciate Craftsmanship Above All Else
At the very top of the range sits Byzance Foundry Reserve. Produced in limited numbers by some of Meinl's most experienced Turkish cymbalsmiths, these cymbals showcase the highest levels of craftsmanship found within the Meinl catalogue. Extensive hand-hammering, wide-blade lathing and remarkable attention to detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Meinl cymbals are best for metal?
For maximum projection, cut and durability, Classics Custom Extreme Metal is the standout choice. Drummers seeking a darker, more contemporary sound may prefer Classics Custom Dark, which combines plenty of attack and volume with added complexity.
What is the difference between B12 and B20 cymbals?
B12 bronze generally produces a brighter, more focused sound with excellent projection, whilst B20 bronze offers greater warmth, complexity and tonal variation. Neither is inherently better; the right choice depends on the sound you're looking for.
What cymbals does Benny Greb use?
Benny Greb is best known for his association with the Byzance Vintage family, particularly the iconic Sand Ride. His setup focuses on musicality, dynamic control and expressive cymbal sounds, making the Vintage range a natural starting point for drummers chasing his sound.
Written by Alex Neave
I've been a part of the Graham Russell Drums team since October 2025, but my connection with the shop goes back much further as a customer since 2012. Over the years I've advised drummers of all ages and experience levels, refurbished countless second-hand kits and spent a lot of time helping customers navigate the often overwhelming world of drum gear. Alongside over 13 years of playing experience, that hands-on exposure to thousands of products allows me to write buying guides based on real-world knowledge and practical experience rather than simply repeating manufacturer specifications.
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