Different people, different ears, different tastes; what’s important in your search for a new ride cymbal is finding the one that soothes your ear, and pleases it the most. There are some great names on the market, with a history of providing great percussion instruments, such as Zildjian. A great range of thicknesses and metals used throughout each makers range offers you a dazzling selection of cymbals to choose from.
As pleasing your ear is the objective; there is no better research than hands on research. Visit your local store, and listen to the various sounds produced by at least a dozen symbols. Take a pad with you, and keep a note of the various makes and specifications, as well as what you enjoyed about the sound. Giving it a quick rating, out of five, for example, will allow you to make better use on reflection of the time spent shopping.
The temptation is to run with the popular choice or the big named favourite, but don’t be fooled. This mindset may not only lead to a generic sound between you and other musicians, but there may also be a cymbal which produces a sound far more suited to your requirements for far less money. Another temptation may be to single out the cymbals used by your favourite drummer. Again, many people have not only done this creating the generic effect, but what worked for your idol might not necessarily work for you. Music is about expression, originality, and individuality. Choose a symbol that suits you and your style of music. When choosing, think with your ears. If the symbol your ears settle on is out of your price range then save up some extra cash, the reward when finally playing the cymbal will be worthwhile.
Once you are a confident play, and sure that drumming is for you, you will soon develop quite the collection of various drums and cymbals, using them together in different ensembles to create different sounds and tones. To begin with though, piecing together the perfect kit for the right price can be an expensive process to do all at once. Start by getting a basic and simple kit, and as you learn, continue to save for new additions and replacements, that do justice to your talents.
GAK (Guitar Amps Keyboards) is a great site for comparing prices and shopping online. This is a great way of saving money on store prices, but do the store research before committing to any online purchase, to save on any disappointment in the long term, and to make the most out of your budget. The differing sizes, and thickness, as well as brands, will ultimately determine the price of the ride cymbal you choose, but once you have the name and model of the cymbal you require, shopping online becomes easy. If you spend a lot of time and effort practicing, you’ll want to give similar dedication to researching the right set cymbals and drums for you.