Gear article
Paiste RUDE 17" Thin Crash
The Paiste RUDE 17" Thin Crash is a professional-grade Swiss-made cymbal designed specifically for aggressive and loud musical environments. Part of the iconic RUDE series, it combines the range's characteristic power and durability with a thinner weight for a more responsive and resonant character.
See live pricesOverview
The Paiste RUDE 17" Thin Crash is a specialist cymbal engineered to meet the demands of heavy music genres. While the RUDE series is traditionally known for its raw, unlathed look and extreme volume, the 'Thin' variant offers a different dynamic, providing a more lively and resonant response than the heavier models in the range. It is manufactured in Switzerland using high-quality processes that ensure the cymbal can withstand the rigours of touring and aggressive playing styles.
History and Background
The Paiste RUDE series was originally introduced in the early 1980s as a response to the rising demand for cymbals that could compete with the high-volume amplification of punk and heavy metal. The 17" Thin Crash sits within this lineage as a professional-quality instrument. It maintains the industrial aesthetic of the series while catering to drummers who require the RUDE sonic profile but with a slightly faster decay and more immediate sensitivity.
Design and Construction
Hand-crafted in Switzerland, this cymbal features the uniform thickness and distinct surface treatment characteristic of the RUDE line. The 'Thin' designation refers to its weight class relative to the standard RUDE crashes, which are often significantly heavier. This construction choice allows the metal to flex more easily, resulting in a lively, powerful crash that activates at lower striking forces while retaining the legendary durability needed for professional touring.
Sound Character
The sound profile of the 17" Thin Crash is described as powerful and resonant. It delivers a bright, cutting tone that can easily pierce through dense walls of distorted guitars. Despite its 'Thin' label, it remains a loud cymbal suited for heavy music, offering a full-bodied wash and a distinct metallic character that is less refined than traditional lath-finish cymbals but highly effective for aggressive accents.
Suitability and Comparisons
This cymbal is primarily suited for drummers playing punk, metal, and heavy rock who need a reliable, professional-grade crash.
In comparison to other market offerings: * Paiste Giant Beat 14" Hi-Hats: While the Giant Beat series focuses on a vintage, multi-purpose sound, the RUDE Thin Crash is far more aggressive and specialised for high-volume settings. * Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash: The Meinl alternative offers a darker, trashier, and much more complex tone compared to the straightforward power and brightness of the RUDE. * UFIP Bionic 13" Hi-Hats: While both are professional-grade and designed for volume, the RUDE Thin Crash provides the expansive wash needed for accents, whereas Bionic cymbals focus on focused, high-frequency definition.
Related gear
£261.00 ($331)Masterwork
Masterwork Iris 21 Ride
£99.99 ($127)Gear4Music
5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack by Gear4music Silver
£355.00 ($451)Paiste
Paiste Giant Beat 14 Hi-Hat Cymbals
£496.00 ($630)Istanbul Agop
Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash
£358.00 ($455)UFIP
UFIP Bionic Series 13" Hi Hat
£386.00 ($490)UFIP
UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hat
£76.00 ($97)Meinl
Meinl HCS 13 Hi Hat Cymbals
£449.00 ($570)Meinl
Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary musical application for the Paiste RUDE 17" Thin Crash?
- It is designed specifically for aggressive and heavy music styles, such as punk and heavy metal. Its powerful projection allows it to be heard clearly in high-volume settings.
- Where is the Paiste RUDE 17" Thin Crash manufactured?
- This cymbal is manufactured in Switzerland. Paiste utilizes expert high-quality production standards to ensure consistency and professional performance.
- How does the 'Thin' weight affect the sound compared to standard RUDE crashes?
- The 'Thin' weight makes the cymbal more lively and resonant. It responds more quickly to strikes and offers a slightly different harmonic profile than the heavier models in the RUDE series.
- Is this cymbal durable enough for touring?
- Yes, the RUDE series is specifically noted for its extreme durability. It is designed to withstand the strains and physical demands of professional touring and aggressive playing.
- What is the typical price range for this model?
- The typical price for this cymbal is approximately GBP 245. This reflects its status as a professional-quality, Swiss-made instrument.
- What is the visual finish of the RUDE series?
- RUDE cymbals feature a raw, unlathed look. This industrial aesthetic is a hallmark of the series and contributes to its unique sonic characteristics.
- Does the 17" Thin Crash have a long sustain?
- It is described as having a lively and resonant character. While it projects powerfully, its thinner weight allows for a slightly faster response than the thickest models in the range.
- How does this cymbal compare to the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash?
- The RUDE is significantly more aggressive and bright, whereas the Istanbul Agop Epoch is a darker, more jazz-influenced cymbal. The RUDE is built for volume, while the Epoch is built for nuance.
- Can the 17" Thin Crash be used for low-volume practice?
- It is not recommended for low-volume practice as it is designed for power and resonance. For quiet practice, products like the Gear4Music 5pc Low Volume Cymbal Pack are more appropriate.
- How does it differ from a Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash?
- The Paiste RUDE is bright, powerful, and metallic, whereas the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry is dark, earthy, and has a very short, 'trashy' decay. They serve very different sonic purposes.
- What size is this specific model?
- This specific model has a diameter of 17 inches. This size offers a middle ground between the fast response of a 16" crash and the fuller body of an 18" crash.
- Is the Paiste RUDE 17" Thin Crash considered a professional cymbal?
- Yes, it is categorized as a professional quality cymbal. It is built to the high standards expected by touring and recording professionals in the music industry.
