What is the primary sound profile of the Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride?

The cymbal is defined by a mellow, earthy, and dry character. It features complex overtones and distinct stick definition rather than bright or piercing tones.

Who designed the Signature series?

The series was developed based on a lifetime of notes, ideas, and technical specifications from the brand's founder and master cymbalsmith, Agop Tomurcuk.

How does the bell design affect the sound?

The low-profile bell reduces high-frequency overtones. This helps warm up the overall tone of the cymbal and keeps the sound more integrated and less shrill.

Can this cymbal be used as a crash?

Yes, it is designed with mellow crashride capabilities. It produces a long-sustaining crash sound that is ideal for drummers using minimal set-ups.

What kind of finish does this cymbal have?

It features a natural untreated finish. This aesthetic choice also contributes to the dry and controlled sonic response of the instrument.

Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?

Yes, its articulate stick definition and warm, complex overtones make it highly effective for jazz and other genres requiring nuanced cymbal work.

How does the flat profile impact playability?

The relatively flat profile makes the cymbal sound more grounded and mellow. It reduces excessive wash, allowing for better control over the dynamics.

What is the typical price for this model?

The Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride is typically priced around £482. It is considered a premium, professional-tier instrument.

Does this cymbal have a lot of sustain?

When used as a crash, it provides a long sustain. However, when played as a ride, the dry stick definition ensures it does not become washed out.

How does it compare to the Lenny White Epoch Crash?

While both are high-quality Istanbul Agop 19" cymbals, the Signature Ride focuses more on ride articulation and earthy tones based on Agop Tomurcuk's personal designs.

What is meant by 'dry stick definition' in this context?

It means that the sound of the stick hitting the cymbal is clear and 'short', with minimal lingering high-pitched ring, allowing individual notes to be heard clearly.

Is this cymbal a good choice for a one-cymbal setup?

Yes, because it functions effectively as both a ride and a crash, it is ideal for drummers looking for a single, versatile cymbal for small kits.

Gear article

Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride Cymbal

The Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride Cymbal is a professional-grade percussion instrument developed based on the lifelong design notes of master cymbalsmith Agop Tomurcuk. It is characterised by its dry stick definition, warm overtones, and a low-profile bell that contributes to an earthy, mellow sonic character.

See live prices

Background and Design

The Signature series holds a unique place in the Istanbul Agop catalogue as it represents the culmination of founder Agop Tomurcuk’s creative legacy. The 19" Ride was crafted following the extensive notes and technical ideas he compiled throughout his life as a master cymbalsmith. The series is intended to preserve the traditional Turkish techniques that define the brand's identity while offering a specific sound profile requested by the founder himself.

The 19" model is a specific iteration that bridges the gap between traditional crash and ride sizes, offering a versatile platform for drummers who require a multi-functional instrument.

Technical Features

The construction of the Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride is defined by several specific structural choices:

Profile: The cymbal features a relatively flat profile, which significantly reduces the presence of high-frequency ring and contributes to a more grounded, 'earthy' tone.
Bell: A low-profile bell design is employed to further dampen high-frequency overtones, ensuring the cymbal remains warm and mellow rather than piercing.
Finish: The cymbal is left in a natural untreated state. This lack of polishing or lathing adds to the aesthetic appeal and assists in maintaining a dry, controlled response.

Sonic Characteristics

The 19" Ride is noted for its dry stick definition, which provides clarity for articulate patterns even when played at higher speeds. Beneath the initial stick strike, the cymbal produces warm and complex overtones that fill out the sound without becoming overwhelming.

Due to its specific weight and manufacturing methods, it also possesses 'mellow crashride' capabilities. This means that while it functions effectively as a ride, it can also be struck on the edge to produce a long-sustaining, dark crash sound. This dual-purpose nature makes it particularly suitable for minimal drum kit set-ups where space is at a premium.

Comparative Context

When compared to other high-end options, the Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride occupies a specific niche. While the Paiste Giant Beat 14" Hi-Hats or UFIP Bionic Series focus on brightness and projection, the Agop Signature prioritises complexity and darkness.

In terms of dry characteristics, it competes with models like the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, though the Agop offers more ride-specific utility. Compared to the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride, the 19" Agop is smaller and more easily controlled, making it a distinct choice for those looking to explore a more mellow, less intrusive sound profile.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary sound profile of the Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride?: The cymbal is defined by a mellow, earthy, and dry character. It features complex overtones and distinct stick definition rather than bright or piercing tones.
Who designed the Signature series?: The series was developed based on a lifetime of notes, ideas, and technical specifications from the brand's founder and master cymbalsmith, Agop Tomurcuk.
How does the bell design affect the sound?: The low-profile bell reduces high-frequency overtones. This helps warm up the overall tone of the cymbal and keeps the sound more integrated and less shrill.
Can this cymbal be used as a crash?: Yes, it is designed with mellow crashride capabilities. It produces a long-sustaining crash sound that is ideal for drummers using minimal set-ups.
What kind of finish does this cymbal have?: It features a natural untreated finish. This aesthetic choice also contributes to the dry and controlled sonic response of the instrument.
Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?: Yes, its articulate stick definition and warm, complex overtones make it highly effective for jazz and other genres requiring nuanced cymbal work.
How does the flat profile impact playability?: The relatively flat profile makes the cymbal sound more grounded and mellow. It reduces excessive wash, allowing for better control over the dynamics.
What is the typical price for this model?: The Istanbul Agop Signature 19" Ride is typically priced around £482. It is considered a premium, professional-tier instrument.
Does this cymbal have a lot of sustain?: When used as a crash, it provides a long sustain. However, when played as a ride, the dry stick definition ensures it does not become washed out.
How does it compare to the Lenny White Epoch Crash?: While both are high-quality Istanbul Agop 19" cymbals, the Signature Ride focuses more on ride articulation and earthy tones based on Agop Tomurcuk's personal designs.
What is meant by 'dry stick definition' in this context?: It means that the sound of the stick hitting the cymbal is clear and 'short', with minimal lingering high-pitched ring, allowing individual notes to be heard clearly.
Is this cymbal a good choice for a one-cymbal setup?: Yes, because it functions effectively as both a ride and a crash, it is ideal for drummers looking for a single, versatile cymbal for small kits.