Gear article
Gear4music Cymbal Felts (4 Pack)
The Gear4music Cymbal Felts are soft washer accessories designed to protect cymbals from surface damage and metal-on-metal contact with stands. Sold in packs of four, they serve as essential maintenance components for drummers seeking to preserve the cosmetic and structural integrity of their instruments.
See live pricesOverview
Cymbal felts are a fundamental component of a drum kit's hardware assembly, acting as the primary buffer between the cymbal and the metal tilter of a cymbal stand. The Gear4music Cymbal Felts are manufactured to provide a soft, protective layer that prevents scratches and keyholing—a common form of damage where the centre hole of a cymbal wears unevenly due to direct metal contact.
Construction and Utility
Constructed from high-density soft felt, these washers are designed to withstand the pressure and vibration generated during play. They are particularly suited for the regularly gigging drummer who requires reliable replacements for worn or lost hardware. The pack contains four units, making it sufficient to outfit two stands (assuming one felt below and one above the cymbal) or to serve as a comprehensive set of spares for a mobile drum kit.
Compatibility
These felts are designed to be universal, fitting standard cymbal stand tilters. They are compatible with a wide range of cymbal types and brands, from high-end professional models to entry-level student gear. Notable examples of compatible instruments include:
- Performance Crashes: Such as the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash or the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash.
- Ride Cymbals: Including the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride.
- Hi-Hats: Such as the Paiste Giant Beat 14" or UFIP Bionic Series 13".
- Specialty Packs: Including the Gear4music 5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack.
Sound and Character
While felts do not produce sound themselves, they play a critical role in the resonance of the cymbal. By providing a soft seating surface, these felts allow the cymbal to vibrate freely while dampening unwanted mechanical noise from the stand. Properly fitted felts ensure that the cymbal's natural character—whether the dark complex tones of a Meinl Byzance or the bright crispness of a UFIP Class Series—is not compromised by rattling hardware.
Market Position
Positioned as a budget-friendly utility item, the Gear4music Cymbal Felts are priced at approximately £3. This makes them an accessible alternative to more expensive branded hardware accessories. They are primarily intended for drummers who prioritise practical protection and value, offering a straightforward solution to maintaining instrument condition without significant investment.
Related gear
£261.00 ($331)Masterwork
Masterwork Iris 21 Ride
£99.99 ($127)Gear4Music
5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack by Gear4music Silver
£355.00 ($451)Paiste
Paiste Giant Beat 14 Hi-Hat Cymbals
£496.00 ($630)Istanbul Agop
Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash
£358.00 ($455)UFIP
UFIP Bionic Series 13" Hi Hat
£386.00 ($490)UFIP
UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hat
£76.00 ($97)Meinl
Meinl HCS 13 Hi Hat Cymbals
£449.00 ($570)Meinl
Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary purpose of Gear4music Cymbal Felts?
- The primary purpose is to protect cymbals from scratches and surface damage caused by contact with metal stands. They provide a soft buffer that keeps the cymbal in pristine condition regardless of playing intensity.
- How many felts are included in a single pack?
- Each pack contains exactly four individual soft felt washers. This quantity is ideal for replacing felts on multiple stands or keeping a set of spares in a stick bag.
- Are these felts suitable for heavy hitters?
- Yes, they are designed to protect cymbals no matter how hard or often a drummer plays. The soft felt material absorbs the impact and prevents cosmetic damage during aggressive performances.
- Can these be used with low-volume cymbals?
- Yes, they are compatible with models such as the Gear4music 5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack. They function the same way on low-volume gear as they do on standard acoustic cymbals.
- Will these felts fit a 21-inch ride cymbal?
- Yes, they are suitable for large cymbals like the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride. The felts provide the necessary support and cushioning for heavier ride cymbals.
- Are they compatible with hi-hat stands?
- Yes, they can be used with hi-hats such as the Paiste Giant Beat or UFIP Bionic series. However, they are typically used on the bottom seat of the hi-hat stand or as replacements for standard cymbal stands.
- What is the typical price for this 4-pack?
- The typical price range for this pack is approximately £3 GBP. This makes it an affordable maintenance item for drummers of all levels.
- Why is it important to use felts on cymbal stands?
- Felts are almost as important as the stands themselves because they prevent metal-on-metal contact. Without them, cymbals can suffer from 'keyholing' or significant surface scratching.
- Who is the ideal user for this product?
- They are ideal for the regularly gigging drummer who needs to account for a range of cymbals and stands. They are equally useful as primary hardware or as emergency spares.
- Can these felts be used with thin crash cymbals?
- Yes, they are perfect for delicate or thin cymbals like the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash. The soft material ensures the thin edges of the centre hole are not damaged.
- Do these felts affect the sound of the cymbal?
- They help maintain the natural sound by preventing the cymbal from vibrating against the metal stand. This eliminates unwanted mechanical buzzing and allows for clear resonance.
- How often should cymbal felts be replaced?
- They should be replaced when they become compressed, dirty, or worn thin. Having a pack of four allows a drummer to quickly swap out old felts to maintain instrument safety.
