What is the Dream Cymbals Dark Matter process?

The Dark Matter process involves a proprietary repeat firing technique where the cymbal is exposed to extreme heat twice. This fundamentally changes the molecular structure of the B20 bronze, making it drier and more articulate.

Is the 20" Dark Matter Bliss a ride or a crash?

It is a multi-functional 'Crash Ride'. It is designed to provide clear stick definition for riding while maintaining the responsiveness and volume needed for crashing.

How does the sound differ from a standard Bliss cymbal?

While the standard Bliss series is warm and washier, the Dark Matter version is drier, more articulate, and features a darker, 'smokey' tonal character due to the double-firing process.

What does the 'smokey' look refer to?

The 'smokey' look refers to the dark, non-traditional finish created by the extreme heat of the repeat firing process. It gives the cymbal a unique aesthetic that stands out under stage lights.

Is this cymbal suitable for loud rock music?

It can handle high-energy crashes, but its dry and articulate nature is best suited for environments where the wash needs to be controlled. It may not cut through as much as a heavy, brilliant-finish ride in high-volume metal.

Why is the 20" Dark Matter Bliss considered 'studio-ready'?

It is considered studio-ready because its dark wash is controlled and does not overpower the mix. This makes it easier for engineers to capture a clean sound without excessive cymbal bleed.

How much does the Dream 20" Dark Matter Bliss typically cost?

The typical price range for this specific model is approximately £399 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and availability.

How does the weight of this cymbal affect its playability?

Based on the Bliss series design, it generally has a thinner profile which allows for easy crashing. The Dark Matter treatment adds the necessary tension for stick definition despite the thinner weight.

Can I use this as my primary ride cymbal?

Yes, many drummers use it as their primary ride, especially in jazz or acoustic settings where a dark, articulate sound is preferred over a bright, piercing ping.

Does the Dark Matter process make the cymbal more brittle?

The process alters the molecular structure to change the sound, but it remains a professional-grade B20 bronze instrument. Like all high-quality cymbals, it should be played with proper technique to ensure longevity.

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

Both offer dry, dark tones, but the Dream Dark Matter Bliss retains the warm, complex heritage of the Bliss series. The Dream model often provides a slightly more 'washy' crash compared to the very short decay of some Extra Dry models.

What genres of music best suit this cymbal?

It is most effective in genres like Jazz, Blues, Indie, and Soul where nuance, dark overtones, and controlled volume are valued. Its versatility also makes it a popular choice for experimental and session drummers.

Gear article

Dream Cymbals 20" Dark Matter Bliss Crash Ride

The Dream Cymbals 20" Dark Matter Bliss Crash Ride is a versatile, handcrafted cymbal that combines the design of the Bliss series with a proprietary double-firing heat treatment. It is designed to offer a balance of dry articulation and dark, complex overtones, making it suitable for studio recording and live performance where control is paramount.

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Background and Design

The Dream Cymbals 20" Dark Matter Bliss Crash Ride represents a hybrid approach to cymbal manufacturing, merging two of the brand's most recognised product lines. The foundation of the instrument is the Bliss series, which is noted for its traditional warmth and complex, vintage-style voice. To achieve the 'Dark Matter' designation, the cymbal undergoes a unique manufacturing step where it is exposed to extreme heat twice. This repeat firing process fundamentally alters the molecular structure of the bronze alloy, resulting in a distinct aesthetic and sonic profile.

Technical Features

The primary feature of this model is the proprietary Dark Matter treatment. By subjecting the cymbal to extreme temperatures multiple times, the alloy becomes more compressed, which affects how vibrations travel through the metal. Visually, this process results in a 'smokey' or charred appearance that is unique to every individual cymbal. The 20-inch diameter provides enough surface area for a sustained wash while remaining responsive enough to function as a large crash.

Sonic Characteristics

Sonically, the Dark Matter Bliss is defined by its ability to balance contrasting elements. It retains the rich, dark overtones of the standard Bliss series but adds a layer of dry, articulate stick definition. The wash is present and dark but remains controlled, ensuring it does not overpower other instruments in a band setting. When struck on the edge, it produces a deep, explosive crash sound that decays relatively quickly due to the molecular alterations caused by the heat treatment.

Applications

This cymbal is primarily aimed at drummers who require a 'studio-ready' sound. Its controlled decay and clear stick definition make it an excellent choice for recording sessions where bleeding into other microphones needs to be managed. It is equally at home in jazz, blues, and indie rock settings. Because it performs both ride and crash functions, it is an ideal choice for drummers looking to minimalist their setup without sacrificing tonal variety.

Market Comparison

Compared to other cymbals in the professional market, the Dark Matter Bliss occupies a space similar to the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash or the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash. While it shares some dry characteristics with the Meinl Extra Dry series, the Bliss foundation ensures a slightly warmer underlying tone. It offers a more complex, boutique sound profile than mass-produced entry-level cymbals like the Meinl HCS series, placing it firmly in the category of professional-grade instruments.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Dream Cymbals Dark Matter process?: The Dark Matter process involves a proprietary repeat firing technique where the cymbal is exposed to extreme heat twice. This fundamentally changes the molecular structure of the B20 bronze, making it drier and more articulate.
Is the 20" Dark Matter Bliss a ride or a crash?: It is a multi-functional 'Crash Ride'. It is designed to provide clear stick definition for riding while maintaining the responsiveness and volume needed for crashing.
How does the sound differ from a standard Bliss cymbal?: While the standard Bliss series is warm and washier, the Dark Matter version is drier, more articulate, and features a darker, 'smokey' tonal character due to the double-firing process.
What does the 'smokey' look refer to?: The 'smokey' look refers to the dark, non-traditional finish created by the extreme heat of the repeat firing process. It gives the cymbal a unique aesthetic that stands out under stage lights.
Is this cymbal suitable for loud rock music?: It can handle high-energy crashes, but its dry and articulate nature is best suited for environments where the wash needs to be controlled. It may not cut through as much as a heavy, brilliant-finish ride in high-volume metal.
Why is the 20" Dark Matter Bliss considered 'studio-ready'?: It is considered studio-ready because its dark wash is controlled and does not overpower the mix. This makes it easier for engineers to capture a clean sound without excessive cymbal bleed.
How much does the Dream 20" Dark Matter Bliss typically cost?: The typical price range for this specific model is approximately £399 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and availability.
How does the weight of this cymbal affect its playability?: Based on the Bliss series design, it generally has a thinner profile which allows for easy crashing. The Dark Matter treatment adds the necessary tension for stick definition despite the thinner weight.
Can I use this as my primary ride cymbal?: Yes, many drummers use it as their primary ride, especially in jazz or acoustic settings where a dark, articulate sound is preferred over a bright, piercing ping.
Does the Dark Matter process make the cymbal more brittle?: The process alters the molecular structure to change the sound, but it remains a professional-grade B20 bronze instrument. Like all high-quality cymbals, it should be played with proper technique to ensure longevity.
How does this compare to the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry series?: Both offer dry, dark tones, but the Dream Dark Matter Bliss retains the warm, complex heritage of the Bliss series. The Dream model often provides a slightly more 'washy' crash compared to the very short decay of some Extra Dry models.
What genres of music best suit this cymbal?: It is most effective in genres like Jazz, Blues, Indie, and Soul where nuance, dark overtones, and controlled volume are valued. Its versatility also makes it a popular choice for experimental and session drummers.