Gear article

Masterwork Custom 11 Splash

The Masterwork Custom 11 Splash is a professional-grade accent cymbal crafted from B20 bronze alloy. As part of the Turkish manufacturer's Custom Series, it is designed to offer a balance of warm tonality and immediate response for various musical genres.

Masterwork Custom 11 Splash
Masterwork Custom 11 Splash
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Overview and Construction

The Masterwork Custom 11 Splash is a specialist percussion instrument designed for drummers seeking a nuanced accent cymbal. It is manufactured using premium B20 alloy, a traditional mixture of 80% copper and 20% tin, which is widely regarded for its musicality and durability. The cymbal is part of the broader Custom Series, a line noted for its attention to detail and hand-crafted precision.

Measuring 11 inches in diameter, this model occupies a middle ground between traditional 10-inch and 12-inch splashes. This specific sizing contributes to its distinct frequency response and decay characteristics, allowing it to stand out in a standard drum kit configuration.

Sound Character and Performance

The sonic profile of the Masterwork Custom 11 Splash is defined by a broad frequency range and a warm, earthy timbre. Unlike many modern splashes that can sound overly brittle or high-pitched, the B20 construction of the Custom series provides added depth and harmonic character.

Key performance attributes include: * Immediate Attack: The cymbal responds instantly to strikes, making it ideal for rapid-fire accents. * Warm Tone: The B20 alloy ensures a rich resonance rather than a purely metallic 'clang'. * Versatility: The frequency balance allows it to sit comfortably within a mix without overpowering other instruments.

Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash
Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash

Application and Versatility

Because of its balanced response, the Custom 11 Splash is suitable for a wide variety of musical environments. In jazz and fusion settings, its expressive dynamics allow for delicate embellishments. In rock and pop, its clarity ensures that accents are heard distinctly through amplified instruments. Its ability to blend into different acoustic environments makes it a utilitarian choice for session drummers who require a single splash that can handle multiple styles.

Market Comparison

Within the landscape of high-end cymbals, the Masterwork Custom 11 Splash competes with other B20 bronze offerings. While larger crash cymbals like the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash or the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash provide long sustain and low-frequency wash, the 11" Splash focuses on short, punchy highlights. Compared to entry-level options like the Gear4Music Low Volume series or the Meinl HCS brass hi-hats, the Masterwork Custom offers a more complex, professional tonal palette characteristic of Turkish cymbal-making traditions.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is the Masterwork Custom 11 Splash made from?
The cymbal is constructed from premium B20 bronze alloy. This material, consisting of 80% copper and 20% tin, is known for providing a broad frequency range and a warm, musical tone.
What is the typical price for this cymbal?
The Masterwork Custom 11 Splash typically retails for approximately £89. This places it in a competitive position for a professional-grade B20 cymbal.
How would you describe the attack of this cymbal?
The attack is described as immediate and precise. This allows drummers to execute fast accents and embellishments with high clarity during a performance.
Is this cymbal suitable for jazz music?
Yes, it is highly suitable for jazz due to its warm tone and expressive nature. Its ability to produce nuanced sounds allows it to blend well in lower-volume, complex musical settings.
Can the Custom 11 Splash be used in rock settings?
Absolutely. While it has a warm timbre, its clear attack and broad frequency range ensure it can cut through a rock mix effectively for punctuations.
What is the specific diameter of this model?
This specific model has a diameter of 11 inches. This is a slightly less common size than 10 or 12 inches, offering a unique pitch and decay profile.
Which Masterwork series does this cymbal belong to?
This cymbal is part of the Masterwork Custom Series. The Custom Series is known for its versatility and expert precision in manufacturing.
Does this splash have a bright or warm sound?
It is characterised by a warm tone and an earthy timbre. This distinguishes it from many entry-level cymbals which may have a brighter, harsher sound.
Is the Masterwork Custom 11 Splash a good choice for fusion?
Yes, it is recommended for fusion. Its versatile sound allows it to adapt to the varied dynamics and technical demands typical of the fusion genre.
How does it compare to the Masterwork Iris series?
While the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride is designed for sustained wash and specific stick definition in a large format, the Custom 11 Splash is designed for short-duration accents and immediate response.
What kind of timbre does the B20 alloy produce in this cymbal?
The B20 alloy produces an earthy timbre. This adds a level of depth and character to the music that is often sought after by professional percussionists.
Is this cymbal considered versatile?
Yes, it is marketed as a versatile cymbal that shines in any musical setting. Its balance of attack and warmth makes it adaptable to many different genres.