What is the primary characteristic of the Meinl Byzance Vintage 20" Pure Light Ride?

Its most defining characteristic is its extreme dryness and lack of sustain. This gives the cymbal a very short, controlled sound that does not wash out.

What finish is used on this cymbal?

The cymbal features a sandblasted surface. This process creates a matte look and helps dry out the overtones, contributing to its vintage character.

How does the weight affect the sound?

The cymbal is made from thin material. This allows for a soft attack and a low-pitched, dark wash that sits underneath the stick definition.

Is this cymbal suitable for loud rock music?

It is generally not recommended for high-volume rock because it lacks the sustain and volume to cut through heavy amplification. It is better suited for jazz, funk, and R&B.

Does the 20" Pure Light Ride have a lot of sustain?

No, it has practically no sustain. The sound is designed to be esoteric and decay almost immediately after being struck.

What is the typical price for this model?

The typical price for this cymbal is approximately £559. It is positioned as a high-end, professional-grade instrument.

How would you describe the stick response?

The stick response is described as outstanding and dry. This means every strike is clearly heard without being masked by ringing overtones.

What does 'trashiness' mean in relation to this cymbal?

Trashiness refers to the complex, slightly distorted overtones that resemble the sound of a china cymbal or an older, aged instrument. It adds a dark, modern character to the tone.

Is the attack of the cymbal sharp or soft?

The attack is very soft. This makes it comfortable to play and ensures it blends into the mix rather than piercing through it aggressively.

Can it be used as a crash cymbal?

While it is a ride cymbal, its thin weight allows it to be crashed. However, the crash sound will be very short and dry with minimal ring.

How does it compare to the Meinl HCS series?

The Byzance Vintage series is a professional-level B20 bronze cymbal with complex hand-hammering. The HCS series is an entry-level range that sounds much brighter and more basic.

What genres of music benefit most from this cymbal?

It is ideal for pop, fusion, jazz, funk, and R&B. These genres often require the articulate, dry, and dark tones that the Pure Light Ride provides.

Gear article

Meinl Byzance Vintage 20" Pure Light Ride

The Meinl Byzance Vintage 20" Pure Light Ride is a specialised percussion instrument known for its extreme dryness and minimal sustain. Produced by Meinl, this cymbal features a sandblasted surface and a thin weight, resulting in a dark, esoteric tone suitable for jazz, funk, and R&B.

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Overview and Design

The Meinl Byzance Vintage 20" Pure Light Ride is part of the premium Byzance series, which is hand-hammered and crafted to offer unique musical qualities. This specific model is defined by its thin construction and a distinct sandblasted finish, which ages the appearance of the cymbal and significantly alters its acoustic properties. It is designed to offer a soft feel under the stick while maintaining a controlled volume level.

Sound Characteristics

This cymbal is categorised by its extremely dry stick response. Unlike traditional ride cymbals that may have a long, shimmering decay, the Pure Light Ride possesses practically no sustain. The sonic profile is described as dark and esoteric, featuring a very soft attack with underlying hints of 'trashiness.' These characteristics ensure that the stick definition remains clear even during fast, articulate patterns.

Musical Applications

Due to its controlled volume and dark tonal palette, the 20" Pure Light Ride is particularly well-suited for genres that require nuance and precision. Its primary applications include:

Jazz and Fusion: Where articulate stick work and complex overtones are required.
Funk and R&B: Where a crisp, dry sound complements tight rhythmic structures.
Pop: Providing a unique alternative to standard bright ride sounds.

Market Comparison

Within the Meinl range, the Pure Light Ride offers a drier experience compared to the HCS series, which is entry-level and brighter. When compared to external alternatives like the Paiste Giant Beat or the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash, the Meinl model stands out for its specific sandblasted texture and lack of wash. While the UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hats or Bionic Series focus on classic brilliance or power, the Pure Light Ride prioritises a vintage, 'earthy' aesthetic.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary characteristic of the Meinl Byzance Vintage 20" Pure Light Ride?: Its most defining characteristic is its extreme dryness and lack of sustain. This gives the cymbal a very short, controlled sound that does not wash out.
What finish is used on this cymbal?: The cymbal features a sandblasted surface. This process creates a matte look and helps dry out the overtones, contributing to its vintage character.
How does the weight affect the sound?: The cymbal is made from thin material. This allows for a soft attack and a low-pitched, dark wash that sits underneath the stick definition.
Is this cymbal suitable for loud rock music?: It is generally not recommended for high-volume rock because it lacks the sustain and volume to cut through heavy amplification. It is better suited for jazz, funk, and R&B.
Does the 20" Pure Light Ride have a lot of sustain?: No, it has practically no sustain. The sound is designed to be esoteric and decay almost immediately after being struck.
What is the typical price for this model?: The typical price for this cymbal is approximately £559. It is positioned as a high-end, professional-grade instrument.
How would you describe the stick response?: The stick response is described as outstanding and dry. This means every strike is clearly heard without being masked by ringing overtones.
What does 'trashiness' mean in relation to this cymbal?: Trashiness refers to the complex, slightly distorted overtones that resemble the sound of a china cymbal or an older, aged instrument. It adds a dark, modern character to the tone.
Is the attack of the cymbal sharp or soft?: The attack is very soft. This makes it comfortable to play and ensures it blends into the mix rather than piercing through it aggressively.
Can it be used as a crash cymbal?: While it is a ride cymbal, its thin weight allows it to be crashed. However, the crash sound will be very short and dry with minimal ring.
How does it compare to the Meinl HCS series?: The Byzance Vintage series is a professional-level B20 bronze cymbal with complex hand-hammering. The HCS series is an entry-level range that sounds much brighter and more basic.
What genres of music benefit most from this cymbal?: It is ideal for pop, fusion, jazz, funk, and R&B. These genres often require the articulate, dry, and dark tones that the Pure Light Ride provides.