What is the primary function of the Dream Contact 18"?

It is a multifunction cymbal designed to serve as both a crash and a ride. This allows drummers to save space on their kit while maintaining a broad range of tonal options.

What kind of tone does this cymbal produce?

The cymbal produces dark and prolonged tones. It is described as being full-bodied, offering the articulation of a ride cymbal combined with the explosive qualities of a crash.

Which musical genres best suit this cymbal?

While it is an all-rounder suitable for many genres, it is particularly recommended for alternative music styles. Its unique textures allow for creative sound exploration in non-traditional settings.

Is this cymbal suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is designed for any ability level. Its versatile nature makes it a great addition for those building their first professional-quality kit or for experienced players.

What is the size of this specific model?

This specific model in the Dream Contact series has a diameter of 18 inches. This size provides a balance between the quick response of a crash and the sustain of a ride.

How does the playing surface affect performance?

The cymbal features a hard-wearing, high-quality playing surface. This ensures durability for heavy hitters while maintaining the sensitivity needed for subtle stick work.

How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash?

The Dream Contact 18" offers a more prolonged, full-bodied tone compared to the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry, which is known for its short, dry decay. The Dream model is more hybrid-focused.

Is this cymbal better for crashing or riding?

It is designed to be equally capable of both. It offers the sound of a high-quality ride mixed with the qualities of a crash, depending on where and how it is struck.

What is the typical price range for this cymbal?

The Dream Contact 18" Crash/Ride typically retails for approximately £209. This places it in the mid-to-high tier of professional cymbal pricing.

Does the cymbal have a specific visual aesthetic?

Yes, the manufacturer describes it as looking as great as it sounds. The finish and craftsmanship are designed to provide a professional visual effect on any drum kit.

How does it differ from the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash?

While both are high-end professional cymbals, the Dream Contact 18" is specifically marketed as a crash/ride hybrid. The Istanbul Agop model is larger at 19" and possesses a different signature tonal character.

Can this cymbal expand a drummer's sound palette?

Yes, the manufacturer states that it allows drummers to expand their sound textures and opportunities. Its unique hybrid nature adds a distinct voice compared to standard single-purpose cymbals.

Gear article

Dream Cymbals Contact Series 18" Crash/Ride

The Dream Cymbals Contact Series 18" Crash/Ride is a professional-grade multipurpose cymbal designed to function as both a dark crash and a defined ride. It features a high-quality playing surface and is intended for drummers seeking versatile sound textures across various musical genres.

See live prices

Overview

The Dream Cymbals Contact Series 18" Crash/Ride is a hybrid instrument engineered to eliminate the need for separate crash and ride cymbals in minimalist setups, or to provide a distinct secondary voice in larger kits. It is designed with a focus on multifunctionality, offering a hard-wearing playing surface that balances durability with professional acoustic properties. The visual aesthetic of the Contact series is as prominent as its sonic profile, designed to provide a high-quality finish suitable for stage performance.

Design and Construction

This 18-inch model is part of the Contact series, which is known for its specific manufacturing processes that yield a responsive playing surface. The cymbal is built to handle the rigours of frequent play while maintaining a high level of tonal sensitivity. By combining the physical characteristics of a ride cymbal with the thinner, more explosive qualities of a crash, Dream has created a surface that responds dynamically to different striking techniques and stick weights.

Sonic Character

The primary sonic profile of the Contact 18" Crash/Ride is characterised by dark, prolonged tones. It delivers a full-bodied sound that bridges the gap between the articulation required for riding and the wash needed for crashing. Key tonal attributes include:

Dark Overtones: A complex harmonic range that avoids excessive brightness.
Prolonged Sustain: The cymbal offers a decay that lingers, typical of high-quality alloys.
Hybrid Response: When struck on the bow, it provides the clear ping of a ride; when struck on the edge, it opens up into a full-bodied crash sound.

Applications

Due to its versatile nature, the Contact Series 18" is marketed as an ideal choice for a wide range of musical genres. It is particularly noted for its utility in alternative music styles, where unconventional sound textures are often required. Because it accommodates various ability levels, it is suitable for both student drummers looking for a high-quality first upgrade and professional musicians requiring a reliable, multi-use tool for touring or recording.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the market, this cymbal sits alongside other professional-grade offerings such as the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash and the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash. While the Meinl Byzance focuses on a dry, short decay, the Dream Contact Series 18" emphasises a more prolonged and full-bodied tone. Compared to entry-level options like the Meinl HCS series, the Dream Contact offers a more complex, professional tonal palette suitable for serious studio work.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Dream Contact 18"?: It is a multifunction cymbal designed to serve as both a crash and a ride. This allows drummers to save space on their kit while maintaining a broad range of tonal options.
What kind of tone does this cymbal produce?: The cymbal produces dark and prolonged tones. It is described as being full-bodied, offering the articulation of a ride cymbal combined with the explosive qualities of a crash.
Which musical genres best suit this cymbal?: While it is an all-rounder suitable for many genres, it is particularly recommended for alternative music styles. Its unique textures allow for creative sound exploration in non-traditional settings.
Is this cymbal suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is designed for any ability level. Its versatile nature makes it a great addition for those building their first professional-quality kit or for experienced players.
What is the size of this specific model?: This specific model in the Dream Contact series has a diameter of 18 inches. This size provides a balance between the quick response of a crash and the sustain of a ride.
How does the playing surface affect performance?: The cymbal features a hard-wearing, high-quality playing surface. This ensures durability for heavy hitters while maintaining the sensitivity needed for subtle stick work.
How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash?: The Dream Contact 18" offers a more prolonged, full-bodied tone compared to the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry, which is known for its short, dry decay. The Dream model is more hybrid-focused.
Is this cymbal better for crashing or riding?: It is designed to be equally capable of both. It offers the sound of a high-quality ride mixed with the qualities of a crash, depending on where and how it is struck.
What is the typical price range for this cymbal?: The Dream Contact 18" Crash/Ride typically retails for approximately £209. This places it in the mid-to-high tier of professional cymbal pricing.
Does the cymbal have a specific visual aesthetic?: Yes, the manufacturer describes it as looking as great as it sounds. The finish and craftsmanship are designed to provide a professional visual effect on any drum kit.
How does it differ from the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash?: While both are high-end professional cymbals, the Dream Contact 18" is specifically marketed as a crash/ride hybrid. The Istanbul Agop model is larger at 19" and possesses a different signature tonal character.
Can this cymbal expand a drummer's sound palette?: Yes, the manufacturer states that it allows drummers to expand their sound textures and opportunities. Its unique hybrid nature adds a distinct voice compared to standard single-purpose cymbals.