What is the primary sound characteristic of the Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride?

The primary characteristic is a strong, loud, and clear 'ping' sound with high-pitched stick definition. It is designed to remain crisp even during loud grooves, preventing the sound from becoming washed out.

Which Zildjian series does this cymbal belong to?

It belongs to the Zildjian A Series, which is widely considered the standard for cymbal versatility and dynamic range. This series is known for its classic, bright, and expressive qualities.

Can the Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride be used as a crash?

Yes, despite being a heavy ride, the manufacturer states it has 'great crash properties.' This allows drummers to use it for powerful accents alongside its traditional ride functions.

What is the typical price range for this cymbal?

The typical retail price for this model is approximately GBP 350. This places it in the professional bracket of the Zildjian catalogue.

Is this cymbal suitable for loud music?

Yes, it is specifically designed for drummers seeking a strong and loud ride. Its high pitch and clear definition allow it to cut through high-volume musical environments effectively.

What size is this specific Ping Ride?

This specific model is a 20-inch cymbal. This is a standard size for ride cymbals, offering a balance between playability and tonal body.

How does the stick definition compare to other cymbals?

The stick definition is described as 'clearly defined' with a high pitch. It is engineered to keep the sound of the stick tip prominent, even when playing fast or complex patterns.

Is the Zildjian A Series considered versatile?

Yes, the A Series is regarded as offering incredible versatility and dynamic range. It is often used as the benchmark against which other professional cymbals are measured.

How does this compare to the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash?

The Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride is a focused, high-pitched ride cymbal meant for clarity. In contrast, the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch is a crash cymbal with different tonal goals, likely offering a darker or more atmospheric response.

Is this cymbal a low-volume model?

No, this is a standard professional bronze cymbal intended for full-volume performance. For low-volume needs, one would look at products like the Gear4Music Low Volume Silver series.

What kind of finish does the A Series Ping Ride typically have?

It typically features a traditional finish, which is standard for the A Zildjian line. This finish contributes to its classic look and balanced tonal response.

Who is the ideal drummer for this cymbal?

It suits drummers who need a reliable, loud ride with clear sticking for grooves. It is a popular choice for those playing rock, pop, and other genres requiring high-pitched projection.

Gear article

Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride Cymbal

The Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride is a heavy-weight ride cymbal designed to provide maximum stick definition and a high-pitched, clear response. Part of the iconic A Series, it is engineered for drummers who require a loud, cutting sound that remains distinct within dense musical arrangements.

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Overview

The Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride is a staple of the Zildjian A Series, a product line often cited as the industry standard for cymbal performance. This specific model is defined by its ability to maintain a 'ping' sound—a sharp, articulate strike—even when played at high volumes. While many rides can become washed out or muddy during loud performances, the Ping Ride is built to offer consistent clarity.

Design and Construction

As part of the A Series, this cymbal is crafted using Zildjian's secret bronze alloy. It features a traditional finish and a profile that facilitates a high-pitched resonance. The weight distribution is specifically tailored to enhance the 'ping' qualities, ensuring that the stick tip sound remains the most prominent frequency heard by the listener and the performer.

Sound Character and Performance

The primary sonic characteristic of the 20" Ping Ride is its strong, clear definition. It produces a high-pitched tone with a focused sustain that does not overwhelm the initial strike. Despite its focus on stick definition, the manufacturer notes that the cymbal possesses 'great crash properties,' allowing it to be used for accents and dynamic transitions. Its versatility and dynamic range make it suitable for a wide variety of musical genres where presence is required.

Suitability

This cymbal is ideally suited for drummers playing in loud environments or genres such as rock, pop, and fusion, where a ride must cut through amplified instruments. It is particularly effective for intricate grooves that rely on rhythmic precision. Its reliability and classic voicing also make it a common choice for session drummers who need a dependable 'standard' sound.

Market Comparison

Within the global market, the A 20" Ping Ride competes with other professional-grade offerings such as the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride or the Paiste Giant Beat series. While brands like Istanbul Agop and Meinl offer thinner, darker alternatives like the Byzance Extra Dry or the Lenny White Epoch Crash, Zildjian's Ping Ride remains focused on brightness and projection. For those seeking lower-volume practice alternatives, it differs significantly from utility options like the Gear4Music Low Volume Silver series.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary sound characteristic of the Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride?: The primary characteristic is a strong, loud, and clear 'ping' sound with high-pitched stick definition. It is designed to remain crisp even during loud grooves, preventing the sound from becoming washed out.
Which Zildjian series does this cymbal belong to?: It belongs to the Zildjian A Series, which is widely considered the standard for cymbal versatility and dynamic range. This series is known for its classic, bright, and expressive qualities.
Can the Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride be used as a crash?: Yes, despite being a heavy ride, the manufacturer states it has 'great crash properties.' This allows drummers to use it for powerful accents alongside its traditional ride functions.
What is the typical price range for this cymbal?: The typical retail price for this model is approximately GBP 350. This places it in the professional bracket of the Zildjian catalogue.
Is this cymbal suitable for loud music?: Yes, it is specifically designed for drummers seeking a strong and loud ride. Its high pitch and clear definition allow it to cut through high-volume musical environments effectively.
What size is this specific Ping Ride?: This specific model is a 20-inch cymbal. This is a standard size for ride cymbals, offering a balance between playability and tonal body.
How does the stick definition compare to other cymbals?: The stick definition is described as 'clearly defined' with a high pitch. It is engineered to keep the sound of the stick tip prominent, even when playing fast or complex patterns.
Is the Zildjian A Series considered versatile?: Yes, the A Series is regarded as offering incredible versatility and dynamic range. It is often used as the benchmark against which other professional cymbals are measured.
How does this compare to the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash?: The Zildjian A 20" Ping Ride is a focused, high-pitched ride cymbal meant for clarity. In contrast, the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch is a crash cymbal with different tonal goals, likely offering a darker or more atmospheric response.
Is this cymbal a low-volume model?: No, this is a standard professional bronze cymbal intended for full-volume performance. For low-volume needs, one would look at products like the Gear4Music Low Volume Silver series.
What kind of finish does the A Series Ping Ride typically have?: It typically features a traditional finish, which is standard for the A Zildjian line. This finish contributes to its classic look and balanced tonal response.
Who is the ideal drummer for this cymbal?: It suits drummers who need a reliable, loud ride with clear sticking for grooves. It is a popular choice for those playing rock, pop, and other genres requiring high-pitched projection.