What makes the UFIP Rotocasting process unique?

Rotocasting is a centrifugal casting method where the mould is spun at high speeds. This removes air bubbles and impurities from the bronze alloy, resulting in a denser and more consistent molecular structure than traditional casting.

Is the 20" Ride Brilliant suitable for heavy rock?

While it is versatile and has good projection, its primary design focus is on jazz, pop, and fusion. For extremely loud heavy rock, drummers might prefer the UFIP Bionic series which is designed for higher volume thresholds.

How does the Brilliant finish affect the sound compared to a Natural finish?

The Brilliant finish on the Class Series generally provides a slightly brighter top-end and a faster attack. It also tends to have a smoother decay compared to the more raw, earthy response of unpolished cymbals.

What genres is this cymbal best for?

It is specifically recommended for jazz, pop, fusion, funk, and acoustic Latin music. Its warm tones and dynamic range allow it to adapt to most musical settings that require nuance.

Is the UFIP Class Series 20" Ride hand-hammered?

Yes, every Class Series cymbal is hand-hammered by skilled artisans. This process, combined with cross-hammering, ensures each cymbal has a unique but controlled tonal character.

Can this ride cymbal be used for recording?

Yes, it is considered an excellent choice for studio recordings. Its balanced frequencies and lack of unpredictable overtones make it easier for engineers to capture a clean signal.

What is the typical price for this cymbal?

The UFIP Class Series 20" Ride Brilliant typically retails for approximately £335. This reflects its status as a professional-level, hand-crafted instrument.

How does the 20" size compare to the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride?

The 20" UFIP is slightly smaller, offering a slightly higher pitch and more controlled wash compared to the 21" Masterwork Iris. The UFIP's Rotocasting also provides a different density than the Iris.

What does 'cross-hammering' do for the cymbal?

Cross-hammering is a technique used by UFIP to increase the cymbal's projection and strength. It helps the sound travel further in live environments without needing to hit the cymbal harder.

Does this cymbal have a fast or slow attack?

The UFIP Class Series 20" Ride Brilliant is designed to deliver a fast attack. This means the sound speaks immediately upon impact, providing precision for intricate stick patterns.

Is this cymbal a good match for UFIP Class Series Hi Hats?

Yes, it is designed to pair perfectly with other items in the range, such as the UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hats. They share the same tonal DNA and manufacturing heritage.

Are UFIP cymbals made from B20 bronze?

Yes, the Class Series is crafted from high-quality B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin). This alloy is the industry standard for professional cymbals due to its rich frequency response.

Gear article

UFIP Class Series 20" Ride Brilliant

The UFIP Class Series 20" Ride Brilliant is a versatile, professional-grade cymbal manufactured in Italy using a proprietary centrifugal casting method known as Rotocasting. It is designed to offer a balance of warmth and projection, making it suitable for genres ranging from jazz and fusion to pop and funk.

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Background and Manufacturing

The Class Series represents the core of UFIP's professional cymbal range. Unlike traditional sheet-pressed or gravity-cast cymbals, the Class Series 20" Ride Brilliant is created using UFIP's unique Rotocasting procedure. This process involves spinning the molten bronze in a high-speed centrifuge, which forces impurities out and ensures a more consistent thickness and density in the metal. Following the casting process, each cymbal is hand-hammered and finished by skilled artisans.

Design and Key Features

The 20" Ride Brilliant features a 'cross-hammering' technique that significantly enhances its projection and dynamic responsiveness. The 'Brilliant' finish is not merely aesthetic; it contributes to the cymbal's tonal profile, offering a polished surface that assists in a faster attack. The construction prioritises a wide dynamic range, allowing the player to transition from subtle, nuanced stick work to more energetic performances without losing clarity.

Sonic Characteristics

The sonic profile of the UFIP Class Series 20" Ride is characterised by warm, deep tones and a responsive feel. Because of the Rotocasting process, it possesses a distinct clarity and a fast attack. While it provides the depth required for acoustic Latin and funk settings, its bright finish ensures it can cut through a mix in pop and fusion environments. It is noted for blending well with other instruments, particularly in live settings where precision is required.

Applications

This cymbal is positioned as a highly versatile 'all-rounder'. Its balanced weight and responsiveness make it an ideal choice for:

Jazz and Fusion: Where dynamic sensitivity and stick definition are paramount.
Pop and Funk: Where a clean, warm tone is required to sit within a produced or acoustic mix.
Studio Recording: Its lack of harsh overtones and reliable projection make it easy to mic and mix.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to other UFIP offerings like the Bionic Series 13" Hi Hats, which are typically heavier and more aggressive, the Class Series Ride is more adaptable and refined. When compared to external alternatives such as the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride or the Paiste Giant Beat 14 Hi-Hats, the UFIP Class Series distinguishes itself through the unique density achieved by Rotocasting, often resulting in a richer, deeper fundamental tone than standard gravity-cast cymbals.

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Frequently asked questions

What makes the UFIP Rotocasting process unique?: Rotocasting is a centrifugal casting method where the mould is spun at high speeds. This removes air bubbles and impurities from the bronze alloy, resulting in a denser and more consistent molecular structure than traditional casting.
Is the 20" Ride Brilliant suitable for heavy rock?: While it is versatile and has good projection, its primary design focus is on jazz, pop, and fusion. For extremely loud heavy rock, drummers might prefer the UFIP Bionic series which is designed for higher volume thresholds.
How does the Brilliant finish affect the sound compared to a Natural finish?: The Brilliant finish on the Class Series generally provides a slightly brighter top-end and a faster attack. It also tends to have a smoother decay compared to the more raw, earthy response of unpolished cymbals.
What genres is this cymbal best for?: It is specifically recommended for jazz, pop, fusion, funk, and acoustic Latin music. Its warm tones and dynamic range allow it to adapt to most musical settings that require nuance.
Is the UFIP Class Series 20" Ride hand-hammered?: Yes, every Class Series cymbal is hand-hammered by skilled artisans. This process, combined with cross-hammering, ensures each cymbal has a unique but controlled tonal character.
Can this ride cymbal be used for recording?: Yes, it is considered an excellent choice for studio recordings. Its balanced frequencies and lack of unpredictable overtones make it easier for engineers to capture a clean signal.
What is the typical price for this cymbal?: The UFIP Class Series 20" Ride Brilliant typically retails for approximately £335. This reflects its status as a professional-level, hand-crafted instrument.
How does the 20" size compare to the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride?: The 20" UFIP is slightly smaller, offering a slightly higher pitch and more controlled wash compared to the 21" Masterwork Iris. The UFIP's Rotocasting also provides a different density than the Iris.
What does 'cross-hammering' do for the cymbal?: Cross-hammering is a technique used by UFIP to increase the cymbal's projection and strength. It helps the sound travel further in live environments without needing to hit the cymbal harder.
Does this cymbal have a fast or slow attack?: The UFIP Class Series 20" Ride Brilliant is designed to deliver a fast attack. This means the sound speaks immediately upon impact, providing precision for intricate stick patterns.
Is this cymbal a good match for UFIP Class Series Hi Hats?: Yes, it is designed to pair perfectly with other items in the range, such as the UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hats. They share the same tonal DNA and manufacturing heritage.
Are UFIP cymbals made from B20 bronze?: Yes, the Class Series is crafted from high-quality B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin). This alloy is the industry standard for professional cymbals due to its rich frequency response.