10 Flat Ride Cymbals Compared | Which is Best for You?

Are you hunting for the ideal flat ride cymbal to add to your drum collection? Well, consider yourself lucky because today, that’s exactly what we’ll be doing in this great article by the Drum City of Portsmouth!

In the exciting world of drumming — every beat, every note, and every sound carries a unique expression that defines a drummer’s style and groove. And if you’re looking to add a very distinct and versatile instrument that can offer crisp articulation, rich tones, and elegant sounds to your performance, then flat ride cymbals are what you need.

Remember to read on because we’ll dive deeper into the specs and features of DCP’s 10 most recommended flat ride cymbals in this article. Whether you’re fond of creating smooth jazz textures or striking rock rhythms, we’ll surely discover what works best with your musical taste and vision. So, are you ready? It’s time to elevate your drumming skills to new heights!

Ah, of course. The first one on the list is none other than the Paiste Signature Traditionals Light Flat Ride Cymbals. Just a quick trivia — did you know that the flat ride cymbals were actually developed by Paiste in the 1960s? That’s right, so this list wouldn’t be complete without tagging their signature cymbals along!

The Signature Traditionals are believed to be more suited for quieter settings because of their softer sound and feel. The ping also offers silvery highs and clarity which showcase the dark and complex sound qualities of the flat ride cymbals.

Oh, and they’re also made in Switzerland from various bronze alloys and traditional craftsmanship. This speaks volumes about the quality and durability of these flat ride cymbals!

Coming up next is another masterpiece from Paiste, the Paiste 2002 Flat Ride Cymbals. The 2002 Series has been known for the legendary warmth and brilliance it brings to the stage. And for just $374, these remarkable flat ride cymbals can be all yours!

Its bright and pearly ping is capable of bringing a warm and controllable wash to any drummer’s performance. And it absolutely works best on a performance that requires radiant presence and more strength! The 2002 Series is also made in Switzerland from high-quality bronze alloys, so the reliability and durability of these flat ride cymbals wouldn’t be a problem at all. 

If you’re looking for a flat ride cymbal that can easily blend with any musical style whether it’s acoustic or electric, then the Xist Dry Dark Flat Ride Cymbals are what you need!

For its outrageously affordable price, these amazing flat ride cymbals offer an interesting and very unique sonic option. It is also designed to complement the other instruments and not overpower them in any way. The Xist Dark Flat Ride Cymbals sound quite percussive, modern, and complex with dark overtones and pointed attacks. 

The next one is the Istanbul Agop collection, which is famously known for adapting old-world technology in the manufacturing of its flat ride cymbals.

And make no mistake, the Istanbul Agop Turk Flat Ride Cymbals do give you a traditional sound but with a modern edge! This flat ride cymbal gives a very controlled spread and a dry stick response which works well for better rhythmic articulation.

Number 5 on the list is the Turkish Cappadocia Flat Ride Cymbal which definitely attracts some attention because of its dark hammering pattern and patina design. It’s like an earthy and mysterious treasure from the ancient desert if you ask me.

The Cappadocia is known for offering a beautiful mixture of cymbal textures that can easily adapt to any musical style and genre. The best part? You can have these amazing and highly sought-after flat ride cymbals for just $429!

Another entry from Paiste? Yup! It is the Paiste Formula 602 Thin Flat Ride Cymbal. The Formula 602 flat ride cymbals are known for their unparalleled purity and clarity, producing airy pings that exhibit soft and deep sounds.

So if you’re fond of playing low-volume and delicate-sounding genres, these Formula 602 flat ride cymbals are what you need. Oh, and since it’s made by Paiste, you can also expect its sturdy and durable Swiss design to last decades!

Yes, you guessed it right! These medium-lightweight flat ride cymbals are known to withstand the test of time thanks to their durable Swiss design.

The Paiste Masters Dark Flat Ride Cymbal is distinguished by its dark and complex variation that is said to seamlessly fit any sound character preferred. Its ping exhibits a bit less of very high frequencies compared to other Paiste flat ride cymbals out there. For $650, this absolute banger of a flat ride cymbal can be all yours!

You know that? Let’s keep it simple. If you’re looking for something with a bit more “sizzle”, then the Meinl Byzance Jazz Club Sizzle Ride Cymbal is perfect for you! Meinl was able to create an extremely unique and distinctive sound that can make any drummer’s performance not only stand out but completely steal the show.

These 22” flat ride cymbals' ability to produce dark and warm but at the same time soft and smooth sounds is utterly remarkable. Oh, and not to mention that long and sizzling sustain that sounds like heaven to the ears!

If low to medium styles are what you prefer, then I suggest you check out the Meinl Byzance Jazz Tradition Flat Ride Cymbals. Trust me, you can never go wrong with it!

These 22” flat ride cymbals are known for bringing a clear and sweet ping that comes packed with complex tonality, little build-up, and long sustain. So if you’re the type of performer who likes to bring wonderful acoustic jazz performances, this Jazz Tradition flat ride Cymbal is perfect for you. 

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Last but definitely not least, is the outstanding Royal Cymbal Craftsman Flat Ride Cymbals. Let me tell you one thing — probably one of the most influential icons in the world of cymbals over the past decade is none other than Paul Francis.

And when it comes to cymbals, Paul is a legend. His knowledge and passion for cymbals is incomparable and unmatched. Therefore, it’s just right for you to consider buying one of his handcrafted masterpieces, the Royal Cymbal Craftsman flat ride cymbals! This particular 22” flat ride cymbal weighs 2386 grams and sounds straight-up beautiful.

Take your sound and style to the next level and shop these Royal Cymbal Craftsman instruments at the Drum City of Portsmouth!

And that’s all of it! The 10 best flat ride cymbals that you can score here at the Drum Center of Portsmouth — the largest independently owned drum store in the world.

Want to see a comprehensive head-to-head comparison of each of these 10 flat ride cymbals to help you decide which one to purchase? Worry no more because DCP has got you covered as usual! Well, nobody else makes an amazing and comprehensive head-to-head comparison of your favorite percussion instruments like the Drum City of Portsmouth, right? So come on and check this out!

Are you still looking for more remarkable drums and percussion instruments to add to your collection? Feel free to visit our website www.drumcenternh.com or subscribe to our YouTube channel Drum Center of Portsmouth for more amazing content. See ya around!