Difference Between Crash and Ride Cymbals

March 28, 2022

Do I need a crash-ride cymbal?

An extreme angle of the stick towards the cymbal could cause damage to the ride cymbal. 

It is not a problem if the cymbal is low enough or angled so that the stick hits the bottom more. This is especially true if the crash cymbals are continuously being crashed.

Difference between crash and ride cymbals

Difference between crash and ride cymbals

The standard ride cymbal can be found in most drum sets. It is usually placed to the right of a drum set above the floor tom.

It is easy to tell the difference between a crash and a ride cymbal. Ride cymbals are usually larger and used to maintain a beat or play a particular rhythmic pattern.

They emit short, sharp sounds. The crash cymbal is used to accent your song, making a loud “crash” or sustained swelling. 

Ride cymbals may be played with sticks or brushes, but crash cymbals might also be used by hand. (Note: All the picks in our list are crash drum cymbals). 

Crash cymbals that are high quality will produce a loud, clear sound that cuts through all the other instruments. The sound should be clear and not muted. 

The pitch is higher the thicker or heavier the cymbal. Sound also tends to be denser. A brighter, more powerful cymbal will sound more full and defined. Between 14 and 16 inches is the best size for cymbals. 

The sound projection is more significant if the diameter is larger than the actual size. The “bell,” or the curving area at the center of your Cymbals, is essential too.

 A more giant bell will have more excellent projection and sound louder. Cymbals that are most frequently used today include ride cymbals, crash cymbals, and even ride cymbals. 

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Both are essential parts of any percussion set today. They can be seen and heard in all kinds of percussion, from marching bands to orchestras to rock bands. 

It has a consistent rhythmic pattern and is sometimes called a “ride pattern.” It is usually placed above the floor tom on the drum set’s extreme right hand (or dominant).

Can you use a ride cymbal as a crash? 

You can crash any ride cymbal. The sound might be pleasant depending on the cymbal, your taste, and preferences. Ride cymbals can be crashed, but they are generally heavier than crash cymbals. A lighter ride cymbal will crash well.

Denis Loncaric
Denis Loncaric

My name is Denis. I am a drummer, percussionist, music enthusiast, and blogger. Drums have been my passion for 15 years now. My idea is to write about the things I like and I am interested in. I want to share my drum passion with fellow musicians who walk, talk, and breathe drums.

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