What is the primary material used for the UFIP Supernova 17-inch Crash?

The cymbal is constructed from high-quality sheet bronze. This choice of material contributes to its bright tone and crystal-clear projection.

What genres is this cymbal best suited for?

It is specifically tailored for urban genres including hip hop, drum and bass, and funk. Its quick response makes it ideal for the intricate patterns common in these styles.

How is the Supernova series manufactured?

UFIP uses a combination of a unique hand-hammering technique and a fast rotation process. This process creates a refined finish and enhances the dynamic range.

What kind of finish does this cymbal have?

The cymbal features a polished brilliant finish. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also sharpens the high-frequency response.

Is the 17-inch Supernova Crash suitable for studio recording?

Yes, its crystal-clear sound and fast response are highly valued in studio environments. It allows for precise articulation that is easy to capture in a mix.

How does the response time of this crash affect playability?

The fast response ensures that the cymbal reacts instantly to the drumstick. This is essential for drummers performing complex rhythms and fast fills.

What is the typical price for a UFIP Supernova 17-inch Crash?

The typical price for this model is approximately £155. This positions it as a professional-grade option within a competitive price bracket.

How does this cymbal compare to the UFIP Bionic series?

While the Bionic series is known for being powerful and heavy, the Supernova is focused on brightness and rapid response. The Supernova is generally more suited for urban beats than heavy metal.

Can this cymbal be used for live performances?

Absolutely, its bright tone is designed to cut through loud live mixes. The brilliant finish and bronze construction ensure it remains audible even on large stages.

What makes the hammering on the Supernova series unique?

The hand-hammering is combined with a fast rotation process during manufacture. This hybrid method is specific to UFIP and influences the cymbal's unique sustain and clarity.

Does this cymbal have a long sustain?

No, the Supernova 17-inch Crash is designed for a fast response and precision. This typically results in a decay that is quick enough to keep rhythms sounding clean.

Is a 17-inch crash a standard size for funk music?

Yes, a 17-inch crash is a popular choice for funk as it provides enough volume to be heard while remaining fast enough for syncopated playing styles.

Gear article

UFIP Supernova Series 17-inch Crash

The UFIP Supernova Series 17-inch Crash is a high-performance cymbal specifically engineered for contemporary urban music styles such as hip hop, drum and bass, and funk. Manufactured from sheet bronze with a brilliant finish, it is defined by its fast response and crystal-clear sonic profile.

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Overview

The UFIP Supernova Series 17-inch Crash is a specialised percussion instrument designed for drummers who require brightness and precision. Unlike traditional cymbals aimed at rock or jazz, the Supernova series is tailored for modern, high-energy urban genres. It is constructed to provide a cutting sound that maintains clarity even in dense musical arrangements, making it suitable for both professional studio tracking and live stage use.

Manufacturing and Design

This cymbal utilizes a distinct production method that sets it apart from standard sheet bronze cymbals. UFIP employs a unique hand-hammering technique in conjunction with a fast rotation process. This combination results in a highly polished, brilliant finish. The structural design focuses on enhancing dynamic range and ensuring a rapid response time, allowing the cymbal to speak quickly when struck.

Sound Character

The sonic profile of the 17-inch Supernova Crash is characterised as bright and crystal-clear. Due to its sheet bronze construction and polished surface, it produces a high-frequency shimmer that cuts through the mix without excessive sustain. Its primary attributes include:

High Sensitivity: Responds to light touches and heavy hits with equal precision.
Articulation: Provides the necessary clarity for complex fills and syncopated rhythms.
Brightness: Offers a high-end sparkle suited for electronic and urban aesthetics.

Target Genres and Use Cases

UFIP specifically recommends the Supernova series for drummers performing hip hop, funk, and drum and bass. These genres often require a 'snappy' sound that decays quickly to avoid muddying the rhythm section. The 17-inch diameter provides a balanced middle ground between the explosive nature of smaller crashes and the fuller volume of larger models.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the UFIP catalogue, the Supernova 17-inch Crash offers a more focused and modern sound compared to the UFIP Class Series 14" Light Hi Hats or the heavier Bionic Series. When compared to external alternatives like the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, the Supernova is significantly brighter and more polished, whereas the Byzance offers a darker, earthier tone. For drummers seeking a high-end professional sound at a mid-tier price point, it serves as a more refined alternative to entry-level brass or basic bronze cymbals.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used for the UFIP Supernova 17-inch Crash?: The cymbal is constructed from high-quality sheet bronze. This choice of material contributes to its bright tone and crystal-clear projection.
What genres is this cymbal best suited for?: It is specifically tailored for urban genres including hip hop, drum and bass, and funk. Its quick response makes it ideal for the intricate patterns common in these styles.
How is the Supernova series manufactured?: UFIP uses a combination of a unique hand-hammering technique and a fast rotation process. This process creates a refined finish and enhances the dynamic range.
What kind of finish does this cymbal have?: The cymbal features a polished brilliant finish. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also sharpens the high-frequency response.
Is the 17-inch Supernova Crash suitable for studio recording?: Yes, its crystal-clear sound and fast response are highly valued in studio environments. It allows for precise articulation that is easy to capture in a mix.
How does the response time of this crash affect playability?: The fast response ensures that the cymbal reacts instantly to the drumstick. This is essential for drummers performing complex rhythms and fast fills.
What is the typical price for a UFIP Supernova 17-inch Crash?: The typical price for this model is approximately £155. This positions it as a professional-grade option within a competitive price bracket.
How does this cymbal compare to the UFIP Bionic series?: While the Bionic series is known for being powerful and heavy, the Supernova is focused on brightness and rapid response. The Supernova is generally more suited for urban beats than heavy metal.
Can this cymbal be used for live performances?: Absolutely, its bright tone is designed to cut through loud live mixes. The brilliant finish and bronze construction ensure it remains audible even on large stages.
What makes the hammering on the Supernova series unique?: The hand-hammering is combined with a fast rotation process during manufacture. This hybrid method is specific to UFIP and influences the cymbal's unique sustain and clarity.
Does this cymbal have a long sustain?: No, the Supernova 17-inch Crash is designed for a fast response and precision. This typically results in a decay that is quick enough to keep rhythms sounding clean.
Is a 17-inch crash a standard size for funk music?: Yes, a 17-inch crash is a popular choice for funk as it provides enough volume to be heard while remaining fast enough for syncopated playing styles.