Gear article

Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10"

The Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10" is a premium effects cymbal specifically designed to complement the percussionist's cajon setup. Hand-hammered in Turkey from B20 bronze, it is engineered for a fast response and full tonal development when played by hand or with light implements.

Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10"
Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10"
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Overview

The Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10" is a specialised percussion accessory designed to integrate seamlessly into acoustic percussion setups. Unlike standard drum kit splashes, this model is voiced to react to the lower impact velocity of hand playing. It serves as a dynamic addition for players looking to expand the sonic palette of a standard cajon without requiring heavy sticks to activate the cymbal's full resonance.

Construction and Manufacturing

This cymbal is manufactured in Turkey, a region renowned for traditional cymbal smithing. It is crafted from B20 bronze, an alloy consisting of 80% copper and 20% tin, which is widely considered the industry standard for professional-grade cymbals. The manufacturing process involves hand-hammering, which imparts a unique character to each individual unit and contributes to its complex tonal profile.

Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash
Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash

Key Features and Response

The primary design feature of the Cajon Splash is its lightweight construction. This reduced mass allows for an extremely fast response time, ensuring the cymbal speaks immediately upon impact. The design focuses on full sound development, meaning the cymbal reaches its peak resonance even with gentle playing. This sensitivity is crucial for percussionists who alternate between the wooden face of a cajon and metallic accents.

Versatility and Playability

While specifically tailored for hand playing, the Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10" is highly versatile regarding implements. It can be performed using:

  • Bare hands and fingers for delicate accents.
  • Rods for a textured, multi-layered sound.
  • Brushes for soft, sweeping textures.
  • Traditional drumsticks for higher volume and sharper attack.

Note that this product is sold as the 10-inch splash cymbal only; stands and additional hardware must be acquired separately.

Comparative Context

In the broader market of B20 bronze cymbals, the Schlagwerk Cajon Splash occupies a niche similar to other high-end Turkish-made cymbals like those from Masterwork or Istanbul Agop. While traditional hi-hats such as the Paiste Giant Beat 14" or UFIP Class Series 14" provide a foundation for kit playing, this 10" splash is intended as an effects-focused auxiliary piece. Its specific hand-response tuning distinguishes it from standard thin crashes like the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is the Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10" made from?
The cymbal is made from high-quality B20 bronze. This alloy, consisting of 80% copper and 20% tin, is known for its professional tonal qualities and durability.
Where is this cymbal manufactured?
The Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10" is hand-hammered and manufactured in Turkey. Turkish cymbal making is traditionally associated with high-end, artisanal production methods.
Can I play this cymbal with my hands?
Yes, it is specifically designed for hand playing. Its lightweight design allows it to produce a full sound even with the gentle touch required for cajon accompaniment.
Is the Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10" suitable for use with drumsticks?
Yes, the cymbal can be used with hands, rods, brushes, or sticks. This versatility makes it suitable for various percussion setups beyond just the cajon.
Does the cymbal come with a stand?
No, the product includes the 10-inch splash cymbal only. Percussionists will need to provide their own cymbal stands or mounting hardware.
What is the typical price for this model?
The Schlagwerk Cajon Splash 10" typically retails for approximately £169. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.
How does the response time of this cymbal compare to others?
It features an extremely fast response due to its lightweight design. This makes it ideal for executing intricate rhythms that require immediate sound decay.
Is this a hand-hammered or machine-made cymbal?
This is a hand-hammered cymbal. The hand-hammering process ensures a unique tonal character and high-quality sound development.
What size is the Schlagwerk Cajon Splash?
This specific model has a 10-inch diameter. This size provides a balance between a bright splash sound and enough body to be heard in an acoustic mix.
Is this cymbal better for loud or quiet playing?
It is optimized for wide tonal range even during gentle playing. While it can handle sticks, its primary strength is responding to the lower dynamics of hand percussion.
Can I use this as part of a larger drum kit?
Yes, it can be used alone or integrated into a full percussion set. Its B20 bronze construction allows it to blend well with other professional-grade cymbals.
What type of sound character should I expect?
Expect a full sound development with a fast decay. The B20 bronze and hand-hammering provide a rich, complex tone that is more sophisticated than entry-level brass cymbals.