How long is the Dream Dark Matter Energy Ride aged?

Each cymbal is left to age for a period of seven months after being handcrafted. This waiting period is essential for the metal to settle and achieve its intended tonal characteristics.

What is the purpose of the double tempering process?

Double tempering involves heating the cymbal multiple times. This specific technique results in a drier sound and creates the unique, charred appearance typical of the Dark Matter series.

Is the Energy Ride 22 suitable for crash riding?

Yes, despite its dry definition, the cymbal is designed to produce full-bodied crashes. This makes it versatile for drummers who transition between rhythmic patterns and accents.

What genres of music best suit this cymbal?

The manufacturer recommends this cymbal for multiple styles, including jazz and rock. Its balance of dryness and power allows it to adapt to various acoustic environments.

What is the typical price for this model in the UK?

The Dream Cymbals Dark Matter Series Energy Ride 22 is typically priced around £519. This places it in the premium, professional category of percussion instruments.

How does the appearance of Dark Matter cymbals differ from standard cymbals?

They feature a striking, dark, and matte appearance caused by the double tempering process. They lack the high-polish or traditional lathing seen on standard cymbals.

What size is the Energy Ride in the Dark Matter series?

This specific model is a 22-inch cymbal. The larger diameter contributes to its deep tone and substantial presence on a drum kit.

Are Dream Cymbals handmade?

Yes, the Dark Matter Series Energy Ride 22 is patiently crafted by hand. This ensures that every individual cymbal has a truly unique sound profile.

How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series?

Both offer dry, complex tones, but the Dream Energy Ride uses a specific double tempering and seven-month aging process. This creates a different sustain profile compared to the Meinl 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash.

Can this cymbal be used for recording?

Yes, its dry stick definition and controlled overtones make it an excellent choice for studio work. The lack of excessive wash helps the cymbal sit well in a mix.

Does the dark finish affect the sound?

The finish is a byproduct of the heat treatment, which directly affects the sound by drying out the overtones. It is not just an aesthetic coating but a result of the manufacturing physics.

How does it differ from the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride?

The Dream Energy Ride is larger at 22 inches and undergoes a specific double tempering and aging process. This typically results in a deeper pitch and a different physical response than the 21-inch Masterwork Iris.

Gear article

Dream Cymbals Dark Matter Series Energy Ride 22

The Dream Cymbals Dark Matter Series Energy Ride 22 is a handcrafted professional-grade ride cymbal known for its distinct double-tempering process and aged construction. It features a unique, scorched aesthetic and a sound profile that balances dry articulation with full-bodied crash capabilities.

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Overview

The Dark Matter Series Energy Ride 22 represents a premium offering from Dream Cymbals, specifically designed for drummers seeking a complex tonal palette. The manufacturing process is notably slower than standard cymbal production, involving an extensive seven-month aging period after the initial casting and hammering. This results in a cymbal that is physically and sonically distinct from traditional bright or polished models.

Manufacturing and Technology

The defining characteristic of the Dark Matter series is the double-tempering process. While most cymbals undergo a single heat treatment, these instruments are subjected to extreme heat multiple times. This process alters the molecular structure of the bronze alloy, which contributes to the darkened, charred appearance of the surface. The subsequent seven-month rest period allows the stresses in the metal to settle, resulting in a more mature and stable sound upon first play.

Sound Profile and Character

The Energy Ride 22 is characterised by a dry stick definition that remains prominent even during intense playing. Despite this dryness, the double tempering allows the cymbal to open up into a full-bodied crash, a combination that is often difficult to achieve in heavy or unlathed cymbals. The tone is described as unique and complex, offering a mixture of dark overtones and explosive response when struck on the edge.

Application and Versatility

Due to its hybrid nature—combining a clear ping with crashable qualities—the Energy Ride 22 is suitable for a wide variety of musical environments. It is frequently employed in jazz settings where subtle stick work and dark washes are required, yet it possesses enough volume and presence to perform effectively in rock contexts. Its versatility makes it a viable 'one-ride' solution for session drummers.

Market Comparison

Within the professional cymbal market, the Energy Ride 22 competes with other boutique and specialized series. It shares sonic similarities with the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry range and the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash in terms of complex, dark textures. However, its specific double-tempering and 22-inch diameter offer a unique sustain and pitch compared to smaller alternatives like the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride or the Paiste Giant Beat series.

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Frequently asked questions

How long is the Dream Dark Matter Energy Ride aged?: Each cymbal is left to age for a period of seven months after being handcrafted. This waiting period is essential for the metal to settle and achieve its intended tonal characteristics.
What is the purpose of the double tempering process?: Double tempering involves heating the cymbal multiple times. This specific technique results in a drier sound and creates the unique, charred appearance typical of the Dark Matter series.
Is the Energy Ride 22 suitable for crash riding?: Yes, despite its dry definition, the cymbal is designed to produce full-bodied crashes. This makes it versatile for drummers who transition between rhythmic patterns and accents.
What genres of music best suit this cymbal?: The manufacturer recommends this cymbal for multiple styles, including jazz and rock. Its balance of dryness and power allows it to adapt to various acoustic environments.
What is the typical price for this model in the UK?: The Dream Cymbals Dark Matter Series Energy Ride 22 is typically priced around £519. This places it in the premium, professional category of percussion instruments.
How does the appearance of Dark Matter cymbals differ from standard cymbals?: They feature a striking, dark, and matte appearance caused by the double tempering process. They lack the high-polish or traditional lathing seen on standard cymbals.
What size is the Energy Ride in the Dark Matter series?: This specific model is a 22-inch cymbal. The larger diameter contributes to its deep tone and substantial presence on a drum kit.
Are Dream Cymbals handmade?: Yes, the Dark Matter Series Energy Ride 22 is patiently crafted by hand. This ensures that every individual cymbal has a truly unique sound profile.
How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series?: Both offer dry, complex tones, but the Dream Energy Ride uses a specific double tempering and seven-month aging process. This creates a different sustain profile compared to the Meinl 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash.
Can this cymbal be used for recording?: Yes, its dry stick definition and controlled overtones make it an excellent choice for studio work. The lack of excessive wash helps the cymbal sit well in a mix.
Does the dark finish affect the sound?: The finish is a byproduct of the heat treatment, which directly affects the sound by drying out the overtones. It is not just an aesthetic coating but a result of the manufacturing physics.
How does it differ from the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride?: The Dream Energy Ride is larger at 22 inches and undergoes a specific double tempering and aging process. This typically results in a deeper pitch and a different physical response than the 21-inch Masterwork Iris.