What is the typical price for the Meinl Byzance 22" Traditional Medium Crash?

The cymbal is typically priced at approximately £581 in the UK market. This price reflects its position as a high-end, professional-grade instrument within the Byzance series.

How does the sound of the 'Traditional' series differ from other Meinl lines?

The Traditional series is designed for a warm, classic sound with a rich tonal complexity. This differs from the 'Extra Dry' series, which is much darker and shorter in sustain, or the 'Brilliant' series which is brighter and more polished.

Is a 22-inch crash too large for most drum kits?

While 22 inches is large for a crash, it is increasingly popular for drummers who want a deep, powerful sound that can also function as a light ride. It requires a sturdy cymbal stand due to its size and weight.

What kind of attack does this cymbal have?

The manufacturer describes the attack as 'energetic and exploding.' This means the cymbal reaches its peak volume quickly after being struck, providing a decisive accent.

Can this cymbal be used in low-volume settings?

Yes, it has a wide dynamic spectrum, meaning it remains responsive at lower volumes. However, for dedicated low-volume practice, products like the Gear4Music 5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack would be more appropriate.

How does the weight of this cymbal affect its sound?

Being a 'Medium' weight cymbal, it offers a balance between the fast response of a thin cymbal and the volume and durability of a heavy cymbal. It provides a louder response than thinner models in the same series.

Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?

Yes, its warm sound and wide dynamic range make it very suitable for jazz, particularly for drummers who prefer large, multi-functional cymbals. It can easily double as a crash-ride in a jazz context.

How does it compare to the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash?

Both are high-end, traditionally influenced cymbals. However, the Meinl Byzance 22" is larger than the 19" Epoch, resulting in a deeper pitch and a louder overall response.

Does the traditional finish require special cleaning?

Traditional finishes can develop a patina over time, which some drummers prefer for a mellower sound. If cleaning is desired, it is best to use a cleaner specifically designed for traditional (non-brilliant) cymbal finishes.

What is meant by an 'extremely wide dynamic spectrum'?

This indicates that the cymbal sounds good across all volume levels. It doesn't 'choke' when hit hard, nor does it sound thin or 'gongy' when played very softly.

Would this cymbal work well in a rock setting?

Absolutely. Its energetic attack and louder response allow it to cut through a wall of amplified guitars while maintaining a pleasing, warm tone.

How does this compare to UFIP Bionic or Class series hi-hats?

While these are different types of cymbals (crash vs hi-hats), the Byzance Traditional series shares a similar commitment to professional hand-manufacturing. The UFIP Bionic series is generally more aggressive, whereas the Byzance Traditional is more balanced.

Gear article

Meinl Byzance 22" Traditional Medium Crash

The Meinl Byzance 22" Traditional Medium Crash is a professional-grade cymbal known for its warm tonal characteristics and expansive dynamic range. It is designed to offer an energetic, exploding attack with a loud response, making it suitable for a variety of musical settings that require both power and nuance.

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Overview

The Meinl Byzance 22" Traditional Medium Crash represents a staple in the brand's premium Byzance line. At 22 inches, it is a larger-format crash cymbal that provides a significant surface area for sound development. The 'Traditional' designation refers to the finish and manufacturing process, which typically involves hand-hammering to ensure a complex and rich sonic profile. This specific model is positioned as a versatile tool capable of delivering high-energy performance across a wide dynamic spectrum.

Sound and Character

The primary sonic characteristic of this cymbal is its traditional warm sound. Unlike brighter, modern alloys, the Byzance Traditional series focuses on a darker, more organic tone that sits well in a mix. Despite its warmth, the 22" Medium Crash is noted for its 'exploding attack,' providing an immediate and energetic response when struck. Because of its medium weight and large diameter, it possesses a louder response than smaller crashes, allowing it to project effectively in high-volume environments.

Construction and Dynamics

Built to handle an extremely wide dynamic spectrum, this cymbal responds sensitively to different playing strengths. It can be played softly to reveal shimmering, subtle overtones or struck firmly to unleash its full volume. The medium weight provides enough mass for sustain and durability without sacrificing the flexibility required for a 'crash' response. The traditional finish further contributes to its balanced frequency response, avoiding the harsh high-end frequencies often found in brilliant-finish cymbals.

Market Context and Alternatives

Within the Meinl catalogue, this cymbal offers a more conventional and versatile alternative to the specialised Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, which is known for its short sustain and earthy tones. While Meinl produces entry-level options like the HCS 13" Hi-Hats, the Byzance series is targeted at professional players.

In the broader market, it competes with other high-end traditional cymbals such as the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash or the Paiste Giant Beat 14" Hi-Hats in terms of manufacturing quality, though its 22-inch size puts it in a distinct category for drummers seeking maximum presence. Other comparable premium brands include UFIP, with their Class and Bionic series, and Masterwork, specifically the Iris 21" Ride.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the typical price for the Meinl Byzance 22" Traditional Medium Crash?: The cymbal is typically priced at approximately £581 in the UK market. This price reflects its position as a high-end, professional-grade instrument within the Byzance series.
How does the sound of the 'Traditional' series differ from other Meinl lines?: The Traditional series is designed for a warm, classic sound with a rich tonal complexity. This differs from the 'Extra Dry' series, which is much darker and shorter in sustain, or the 'Brilliant' series which is brighter and more polished.
Is a 22-inch crash too large for most drum kits?: While 22 inches is large for a crash, it is increasingly popular for drummers who want a deep, powerful sound that can also function as a light ride. It requires a sturdy cymbal stand due to its size and weight.
What kind of attack does this cymbal have?: The manufacturer describes the attack as 'energetic and exploding.' This means the cymbal reaches its peak volume quickly after being struck, providing a decisive accent.
Can this cymbal be used in low-volume settings?: Yes, it has a wide dynamic spectrum, meaning it remains responsive at lower volumes. However, for dedicated low-volume practice, products like the Gear4Music 5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack would be more appropriate.
How does the weight of this cymbal affect its sound?: Being a 'Medium' weight cymbal, it offers a balance between the fast response of a thin cymbal and the volume and durability of a heavy cymbal. It provides a louder response than thinner models in the same series.
Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?: Yes, its warm sound and wide dynamic range make it very suitable for jazz, particularly for drummers who prefer large, multi-functional cymbals. It can easily double as a crash-ride in a jazz context.
How does it compare to the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash?: Both are high-end, traditionally influenced cymbals. However, the Meinl Byzance 22" is larger than the 19" Epoch, resulting in a deeper pitch and a louder overall response.
Does the traditional finish require special cleaning?: Traditional finishes can develop a patina over time, which some drummers prefer for a mellower sound. If cleaning is desired, it is best to use a cleaner specifically designed for traditional (non-brilliant) cymbal finishes.
What is meant by an 'extremely wide dynamic spectrum'?: This indicates that the cymbal sounds good across all volume levels. It doesn't 'choke' when hit hard, nor does it sound thin or 'gongy' when played very softly.
Would this cymbal work well in a rock setting?: Absolutely. Its energetic attack and louder response allow it to cut through a wall of amplified guitars while maintaining a pleasing, warm tone.
How does this compare to UFIP Bionic or Class series hi-hats?: While these are different types of cymbals (crash vs hi-hats), the Byzance Traditional series shares a similar commitment to professional hand-manufacturing. The UFIP Bionic series is generally more aggressive, whereas the Byzance Traditional is more balanced.