Gear article
UFIP Tiger Series 22" Ride
The UFIP Tiger Series 22" Ride is a professional-grade cymbal designed specifically for high-volume musical genres such as hard rock, metal, and punk. Crafted from CuSn8 sheet bronze, it utilises a specialised hardening process to deliver explosive power and extended sustain.
See live pricesOverview
The UFIP Tiger Series 22" Ride is a heavy-duty percussion instrument engineered for drummers who require maximum projection and durability. Positioned as a specialized tool for aggressive playing styles, this cymbal is built to cut through dense, high-gain guitar walls and loud stage monitors. Every Tiger Series cymbal undergoes a unique manufacturing workflow that combines industrial material selection with traditional Italian craftsmanship.
Manufacturing and Materials
Unlike many cymbals in the UFIP catalogue that use Rotocasting, the Tiger Series is crafted from CuSn8 sheet bronze alloy. To enhance its performance for heavy hitters, UFIP employs a specialised surface hardening process. This treatment increases the structural integrity and modifies the tonal response of the bronze. Despite the modern materials, each 22" ride is fully hand-hammered and finished by hand, ensuring that no two cymbals are identical in their microscopic surface texture or specific tonal nuances.
Sound Profile and Character
The sonic character of the Tiger Series 22" Ride is defined by its bright, cutting tone and powerful attack. Key characteristics include:
- Response: Quick and immediate ignition of sound upon impact.
- Sustain: Long, lasting decay that maintains a presence in the mix.
- Tone: High-frequency dominance that ensures the 'ping' remains audible against distorted instruments.
- Feel: A personalized touch resulting from the hand-finishing process, offering a balance between stiffness and musicality.
Target Audience
This ride is specifically tailored for drummers operating in loud environments. It is highly suitable for hard rock, metal, and punk genres where explosive power is a necessity. Because of its 22-inch diameter and CuSn8 composition, it provides the physical weight and surface area needed for heavy recording sessions or large live performances where a smaller or thinner ride might be washed out.
Comparative Analysis
Within the UFIP range, the Tiger Series sits alongside the Bionic and Class series but offers a more aggressive, focused character compared to the 14" Light Hi-Hats of the Class series or the complex tones of the Bionic 13" Hi-Hats. When compared to alternatives like the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride or the Paiste Giant Beat 14 Hi-Hats, the Tiger Series is more distinctly oriented toward modern metal and high-volume projection rather than vintage or dark jazz aesthetics.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary alloy used in the UFIP Tiger Series 22" Ride?
- The cymbal is crafted from CuSn8 sheet bronze. This alloy is known for its bright, focused response and durability in high-volume settings.
- What genres is this ride cymbal best suited for?
- It is specifically designed for hard rock, metal, and punk. Its explosive power and bright tone are intended to cut through loud amplified music.
- Is the Tiger Series 22" Ride hand-made?
- Yes, each cymbal is fully hand-hammered and finished by hand. This ensures a unique feel and high-quality construction for every individual unit.
- How does the hardening process affect the cymbal?
- The specialised surface hardening process makes the cymbal more durable for aggressive playing. It also helps in maintaining a bright, cutting tonal character.
- What is the typical sustain of this 22" ride?
- The manufacturer describes the sustain as long-lasting. This allows the cymbal's ring to remain present during intense drumming sequences.
- Does this cymbal have a fast or slow response?
- The UFIP Tiger Series 22" Ride features a quick response. This means the sound reaches its peak almost immediately after the stick strike.
- How does the size impact the sound of the Tiger Ride?
- At 22 inches, this ride provides a larger surface area for a deeper, more powerful sound compared to smaller models. The size contributes to its high volume and long sustain.
- Can this cymbal be used for recording?
- Yes, it is considered ideal for heavy recording sessions. Its ability to cut through a mix ensures that the ride patterns remain clear in the final audio production.
- How does it compare to the UFIP Bionic series?
- While the Bionic series is also known for power, the Tiger series uses sheet bronze and a specific hardening process tailored for the unique demands of metal and punk. The Tiger series offers a different, often more aggressive, sonic footprint.
- Is the finish of each Tiger Series ride identical?
- No, because they are finished by hand, each cymbal offers a personalised touch. This results in slight variations in appearance and feel, giving each instrument a unique character.
- What makes this cymbal suitable for live performances?
- Its powerful attack and bright tone allow it to be heard clearly over loud stage volumes. The durability provided by the hardening process also makes it reliable for touring.
- What is the typical price range for this model?
- The UFIP Tiger Series 22" Ride typically retails for approximately GBP 239. This makes it a competitive professional-level option for heavy hitters.
