Gear article
Stagg Genghis Exo 20" Medium Ride
The Stagg Genghis Exo 20" Medium Ride is a professional-grade cymbal known for its medium-dark, complex tonal character and distinct hybrid finish. It features a combination of raw and brilliant surfaces designed to provide clear vintage projection and a unique full-bodied sound that cuts through a musical mix.
See live pricesOverview
The Stagg Genghis Exo 20" Medium Ride is a versatile percussion instrument designed to bridge the gap between traditional vintage aesthetics and modern projection. As part of Stagg's premium offerings, the Genghis Exo series is defined by its complex manufacturing process and distinctive visual appearance, intended to deliver a dynamic range suitable for various musical environments.
Design and Construction
This ride cymbal is characterised by a dual-finish design, incorporating both raw and brilliant sections. The most notable feature is the un-lathed raw bell, which is engineered to provide a dry, clear, and focused 'ping' that remains distinct even when the rest of the cymbal is vibrating at full volume. The body of the cymbal features prominent hand-hammer marks, a technique used to disrupt the sound waves and create the complex, 'dark' overtones associated with hand-crafted cymbals.
Sound Character and Performance
The sound of the Genghis Exo 20" Medium Ride is described as medium-dark with full-bodied tones. Its combination of lathing and raw surfaces allows it to produce a clear vintage projection. This enables the cymbal to cut through a mix without being overly abrasive. The meticulous manufacturing process ensures that each unit possesses a unique sonic signature while maintaining the series' signature dynamic responsiveness.
Market Position and Compatibility
Sitting in the mid-to-high price bracket at approximately £278, this cymbal is aimed at drummers seeking a professional sound that is adaptable to multiple genres. It is often compared to other complex, hand-hammered cymbals such as the Masterwork Iris 21" Ride or the Meinl Byzance series. While it shares the dry characteristics found in cymbals like the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash, its medium weight ensures it remains versatile enough for styles ranging from jazz to rock.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the typical price for the Stagg Genghis Exo 20" Medium Ride?
- The cymbal typically retails for approximately £278 in the UK market.
- What kind of finish does this cymbal have?
- It features a hybrid finish, utilizing a mixture of raw and brilliant surfaces to balance its tonal output.
- Is the bell of the Genghis Exo 20" Ride lathed?
- No, the bell is un-lathed and raw, which helps produce a clear, vintage-style projection.
- How is the Genghis Exo 20" Medium Ride manufactured?
- Each cymbal undergoes a meticulous manufacturing process involving hand-hammering to create unique, full-bodied tones.
- What is the general sound profile of this cymbal?
- It is described as having medium-dark, complex tones with a clear vintage projection that cuts through a mix.
- Is this cymbal suitable for specific genres?
- The manufacturer describes the Genghis Exo Ride as extremely versatile, sitting perfectly in the mix for any musical style.
- How does the weight of the cymbal affect its sound?
- As a 'Medium' ride, it provides a balance between stick definition and wash, making it more versatile than thinner or heavier alternatives.
- Does this ride cymbal have hand-hammer marks?
- Yes, visible hand-hammer marks are a key feature that contributes to its unique and dynamic sound.
- What is the diameter of this specific model?
- This specific model has a diameter of 20 inches, which is a standard size for versatile ride cymbals.
- How does it compare to the Masterwork Iris series?
- Like the Masterwork Iris 21" Ride, the Genghis Exo focuses on complex, boutique-style tones, though the Stagg model features a specific raw bell design.
- Can this cymbal cut through loud music?
- Yes, its vintage projection and raw bell are specifically designed to help the cymbal cut through the mix in various settings.
- Are all Stagg Genghis Exo cymbals identical?
- Because of the meticulous manufacturing and hand-hammering, each cymbal achieves a dynamic and unique individual sound.
