Meinl Cymbals 20 inch Byzance Dark Ride Cymbal Reviews
If you prefer your ride tone down to earth, then you're going to feel right at home with this Meinl 20" Byzance Dark Ride. This ride takes full advantage of B20 bronze's rich low end and natural warmth, and the drummers here at Sweetwater got to experience first hand how well its highly defined ping and bell balance the deeper wash of its sustained tone. We were also surprised by how controlled the sustain of the 20" Byzance Dark Ride is, particularly considering it's such a heavy cymbal. From session gigs to live shows, you'll get a ton of milage out of this unique ride cymbal.
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Sweetwater Reviews
Jesse Gutierrez
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Highest Rated Reviews
Unique and versatile heavier ride, not my cup of tea for crashing though
I've had this for a few years now and figured I'd review. Previously I had used a 20'' Zildjian A Custom ride and a 20'' Meinl Classic Customs Dark Ride.
The Meinl Byzance Dark Ride cuts through any mix but is never harsh or unmusical. It's great for many different styles and gives me the stick definition, response and ping I desire. The bell is loud and has a great stick response. Being a 20'' ride gives it a fast, immediate attack compared to a 21 or larger. It has a great sound for blast beats and other metal ride work. It also fits in a big band/bop mix. Incredibly versatile cymbal.
As far as aesthetics the raw, hand hammered finish looks amazing. It feels like some vintage cymbal that's been unearthed after years being buried in dirt.
My only criticism is the cymbal doesn't open up/crash like a lighter weight ride. I bought this knowing it's a heavier ride and 99% of the sound I wanted with it was an uncrashed ride so I'm not disappointed. It's just something to be aware if you want this ride but NEED a good crashable ride at the same time. You CAN crash this, the sound is very distinct and loud though. IMO it's more of a CLANG rather than a crash. I use a 22 Dream Vintage Bliss crash/ride if I need a more traditional washy ride that opens up easily.
