Gear article
Meinl HCS 20 Ride Cymbal & Gear4music Boom Arm Stand
The Meinl HCS 20 Ride Cymbal & Gear4music Boom Arm Stand is a pre-configured hardware and percussion bundle designed for beginner and intermediate drummers. It combines a professional-grade MS63 alloy ride cymbal with a stable, double-braced boom stand to provide an out-of-the-box solution for kit expansion.
See live pricesOverview
The Meinl HCS 20 Ride Cymbal & Gear4music Boom Arm Stand set is a comprehensive package aimed at drummers looking to integrate a primary or secondary ride cymbal into their setup efficiently. The bundle removes the need for separate hardware sourcing, ensuring that the cymbal is paired with a stand capable of supporting its weight and size.
The HCS 20 Ride Cymbal
The HCS 20 Ride is crafted from Meinl’s MS63 brass alloy. This material is selected for its ability to withstand heavy use while maintaining a consistent tonal profile. The cymbal is designed to produce a medium to low volume output, making it suitable for rehearsals and small-to-medium venue performances. It features a medium sustain that provides enough resonance for pop and rock styles without becoming overwhelming in a mix.
Hardware and Stability
Included in the bundle is a Gear4music Boom Arm Cymbal Stand. This stand is built for durability, featuring double-braced legs that provide a low centre of gravity to prevent tipping during aggressive play. The boom arm functionality is critical for ergonomic setups, as it allows the drummer to position the 20-inch cymbal over other components of the kit. The stand incorporates two separate angle adjusters, offering precise control over the tilt and height of the cymbal.
Sonic Character
The HCS 20 Ride is characterised by its 'crystal clear' stick definition. This ensures that every strike, whether on the bow or the bell, is articulate and distinct. Because it occupies a medium-to-low volume range, it is particularly effective for drummers who need to maintain clear rhythmic patterns without drowning out other instruments in a band setting.
Comparisons and Alternatives
While this bundle provides a specific balance of value and performance, other hardware solutions exist for different needs. For example, drummers seeking purely vocal or acoustic recording gear might look toward the Shure SM58 bundle, whereas those focusing on studio monitoring might consider the Omnitronic TMO-2. In terms of support hardware, the Trojan Pro Mic Stand offers similar telescopic flexibility but for microphones rather than heavy percussion. The Gear4music stand in this bundle is specifically engineered for the weight and vibration of a 20-inch ride, unlike lightweight utility stands such as the K&M 19797 Tablet stand.
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Frequently asked questions
- What material is the Meinl HCS 20 Ride made from?
- The cymbal is constructed from Meinl's specially selected MS63 brass alloy. This alloy is designed to offer a balance of durability and clear tonal response for entry-level and intermediate players.
- What is the primary benefit of the Gear4music Boom Arm Stand?
- The boom arm allows for versatile positioning, enabling the user to place the cymbal at various distances and angles. This is especially useful for reaching over toms or other hardware in a crowded drum kit.
- Is this cymbal suitable for heavy metal drumming?
- While it is primarily designed for rock and pop, its MS63 construction is durable. However, its medium to low volume may be better suited for controlled environments rather than high-decibel metal performances.
- What kind of stick definition does the HCS 20 Ride offer?
- The HCS 20 Ride provides a crystal clear stick definition. This ensures that individual hits are audible and do not wash out into a generic wall of sound during fast patterns.
- Are the stand legs double-braced?
- Yes, the Gear4music Boom Arm Stand features double-braced legs. This design provides increased stability and prevents the stand from wobbling during use.
- How many angle adjusters does the stand have?
- The stand is equipped with two angle adjusters. These allow for independent adjustment of the boom arm and the cymbal tilter for maximum ergonomic flexibility.
- What is the sustain profile of this cymbal?
- The Meinl HCS 20 Ride offers a sophisticated medium sustain. This provides a natural decay that is sufficient for rhythmic filling without lingering too long.
- Can the stand be used for other types of cymbals?
- Yes, the Gear4music Boom Arm Stand is a standard cymbal stand. It can support crashes, splashes, or chinas, though it is specifically bundled here for the 20-inch ride.
- What is the typical price for this bundle?
- The typical price range for this specific cymbal and stand combination is approximately £129. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
- Is this package suitable for a beginner?
- Yes, it is marketed as a great way to achieve an efficient setup straight out of the box. It provides essential components that are easy to assemble and adjust.
- How does the volume of the HCS 20 Ride compare to other cymbals?
- It delivers a medium to low volume. This makes it an excellent choice for practice rooms and smaller venues where volume control is necessary.
- Does the stand include a boom arm feature?
- Yes, the stand includes a boom arm that allows you to tailor the position of the ride cymbal to your specific preference. This is more flexible than a straight cymbal stand.
