Gear article

Meinl Byzance 6" Traditional Splash

The Meinl Byzance 6" Traditional Splash is a professional-grade effect cymbal constructed from B20 bronze. It is designed to offer a balance of punchy attack and washy decay, catering to drummers who require a compact accent cymbal with a classic response.

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Overview

The Meinl Byzance 6" Traditional Splash is a small-diameter effect cymbal that sits within the brand's premium Byzance line. Characterised by its hand-hammered B20 bronze construction, it is intended to provide a professional level of tonal complexity and responsiveness. Unlike entry-level cymbals, the Traditional series focuses on a warmth and versatility that suits a wide range of musical genres from jazz to rock.

Sound and Performance

The manufacturer describes the 6" Traditional Splash as having a nice spread with a significant attack. Despite its small size, it produces a punchy sound that remains washy, ensuring it does not sound overly 'choked' or thin. The Traditional finish contributes to a classic feel, providing a balanced frequency response that avoids the extreme dryness or excessive brightness found in other speciality series.

Target Audience

This cymbal is ideally suited for drummers who need a fast-reacting accent tool that fits into tight spaces on a drum kit. Due to its traditional tonal profile, it is a versatile choice for session players who require a splash that can blend into various mixes without being overbearing. It appeals to those who value the craftsmanship of B20 bronze and hand-hammering over machine-made alternatives.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Meinl range, the 6" Traditional Splash offers more warmth and wash than the 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, which focuses on darker, shorter decays. When compared to entry-level brass options like the Meinl HCS 13" Hi-Hats, the Byzance Splash offers significantly more harmonic complexity. In the wider market, it competes with other premium B20 splashes such as those in the UFIP Class Series or the Istanbul Agop range, though the Byzance is noted for its specific balance of 'punch' and 'traditional feel'.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used in the Meinl Byzance 6" Traditional Splash?
The cymbal is crafted from B20 bronze alloy. This material is standard for high-end professional cymbals due to its rich harmonic range and durability.
How does the manufacturer describe the attack of this splash?
Meinl describes the 6" Traditional Splash as having a great, punchy attack. This allows the cymbal to cut through a mix quickly when hit.
Is this cymbal considered 'dry' or 'washy'?
According to the manufacturer description, the cymbal is punchy and washy. It maintains a nice spread of sound rather than a completely dry or short decay.
What is the typical price for this 6" splash in the UK?
The typical price range for this specific model is approximately GBP 131. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current stock levels.
Does this cymbal have a traditional or modern finish?
It features a traditional finish. This provides a balanced tone and a classic aesthetic compared to brilliant or raw finishes.
What size is this particular Byzance splash?
This model is 6 inches in diameter. This makes it one of the smallest splashes available in the Byzance series, offering a very high-pitched accent.
How does the sound spread compare to other splashes?
The manufacturer notes that it has a 'nice spread'. This suggests that for a 6-inch cymbal, it provides a full sound that fills the immediate frequency space well.
Can this cymbal be used for heavy rock music?
While it has a punchy attack, its small 6" size means it has limited volume. It is best used for quick accents rather than sustained riding in loud environments.
How does it differ from the Meinl HCS series?
The Byzance 6" Splash is a professional B20 bronze cymbal, whereas the HCS series is an entry-level line typically made from brass or MS63 alloy. The Byzance offers significantly higher sound quality and complexity.
Is the Meinl Byzance 6" Traditional Splash hand-hammered?
Yes, the Byzance series is known for its extensive hand-hammering process. This gives each cymbal a unique character and a more complex tonal profile.
What kind of stand or mount is required for this cymbal?
Due to its 6-inch size, it can be mounted on a standard cymbal felt or a dedicated splash boom arm. It is lightweight enough to be stacked on top of other cymbals using a stacker attachment.
How does it compare to the UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hats?
The Byzance 6" Splash is a small effect cymbal designed for short accents, whereas the UFIP 14" Light Hi-Hats are primary time-keeping cymbals with a much larger diameter and different functional purpose.