What is the primary material used for the Zildjian S Family?

The S Family is constructed from a B12 bronze alloy, which consists of 88% copper and 12% tin. This alloy is chosen for its bright, expressive qualities that sit between budget B8 and premium B20 bronze.

How does the 22" diameter affect the sound compared to a 20" ride?

The larger 22" diameter provides a lower fundamental pitch and a greater volume ceiling. It also offers more surface area for varying tonal nuances and a larger, more resonant bell.

Is the Zildjian S Family 22" Medium Ride suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is an excellent choice for intermediate players or beginners looking to upgrade from entry-level sets. Its price point of approximately £181 makes it accessible while offering professional performance features.

What kind of stick response can be expected from this cymbal?

The cymbal is designed for a lively stick response with extreme precision. The combination of its medium weight and pinpoint hammering ensures that every strike is clearly defined.

How does the bell sound on the 22" Medium Ride?

The bell character is described as solid and defined. It produces a distinct 'ping' that is isolated from the main wash of the cymbal, making it ideal for rhythmic accents.

Can this cymbal be used for jazz?

While it is a multi-purpose ride, its medium weight and bright shimmering overtones are better suited for modern styles. For traditional jazz, a thinner ride like a Masterwork Iris or Istanbul Agop might be preferred.

How does the lathing affect the performance?

The heavy lathing opens up the cymbal, allowing it to vibrate more freely. This results in the shimmering overtones and full-bodied sound characteristic of the S Family series.

What is the weight class of this specific model?

This model is classified as a 'Medium' ride. This weight provides a balanced mix of stick definition and wash, preventing the sound from becoming too metallic or too airy.

How does it compare to the Meinl HCS series?

The Zildjian S Family is a significant step up from the Meinl HCS series, which is typically made of brass. The S Family offers better tonal complexity, sustain, and durability.

What finish does the Zildjian S Family 22" Medium Ride have?

It features a brilliant finish that contributes to its bright, high-end shimmer. This finish also gives the cymbal a polished, professional aesthetic on stage.

Is this ride cymbal crashable?

Due to its medium weight and 22" size, it has a powerful, loud crash sound. However, it requires more force to open up compared to a dedicated thin crash like the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry.

Does the cymbal come with a warranty?

Typically, Zildjian cymbals come with a two-year manufacturer's warranty against cracking or defects. Buyers should check with their specific retailer for terms at the time of purchase.

Gear article

Zildjian S Family 22" Medium Ride Cymbal

The Zildjian S Family 22" Medium Ride is a versatile, all-purpose cymbal designed for a wide range of musical applications. Part of the Zildjian S series, it is characterised by a heavily-lathed surface and a full-bodied, shimmering sound profile.

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Background and Design

The Zildjian S Family represents a significant development in the manufacturer's mid-level cymbal offerings. The 22" Medium Ride is a primary component of this series, designed to balance affordability with professional tonal characteristics. The manufacturing process involves a heavily-lathed surface treated with evenly-spread pinpoints, which are essential for controlling the cymbal's harmonic spread and ensuring a predictable response under various playing conditions.

Technical Features

The cymbal's construction focuses on precision and durability. Key technical aspects include:

Precision Lathing: Extensive lathing across both the top and bottom surfaces to refine the frequency response.
Pointed Hammering: The inclusion of evenly-spread pinpoints assists in providing a lively stick response.
Large Diameter: The 22-inch size provides a deeper pitch and more air displacement compared to standard 20-inch models.
Bell Character: A defined bell shape engineered to produce a distinct, solid 'ping' that cuts through loud stage volumes.

Tonal Profile

As a medium-weight cymbal, the S Family 22" Ride offers a full-bodied sound signature. It is noted for its shimmering overtones and pronounced depth, which are balanced by a clear, articulate stick definition. Unlike thinner jazz rides that may wash out easily, this model maintains its clarity even when played with higher intensity, making it a reliable choice for multi-purpose drumming.

User Suitability and Market Position

This cymbal is positioned as a high-value option for drummers requiring a single ride that can handle multiple genres. Its robust build makes it suitable for rock and pop, while the shimmering overtones allow for use in more nuanced settings. In the broader market, it sits between entry-level brass sets like the Meinl HCS series and high-end boutique offerings such as the Istanbul Agop Lenny White series or Paiste Giant Beat cymbals.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used for the Zildjian S Family?: The S Family is constructed from a B12 bronze alloy, which consists of 88% copper and 12% tin. This alloy is chosen for its bright, expressive qualities that sit between budget B8 and premium B20 bronze.
How does the 22" diameter affect the sound compared to a 20" ride?: The larger 22" diameter provides a lower fundamental pitch and a greater volume ceiling. It also offers more surface area for varying tonal nuances and a larger, more resonant bell.
Is the Zildjian S Family 22" Medium Ride suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is an excellent choice for intermediate players or beginners looking to upgrade from entry-level sets. Its price point of approximately £181 makes it accessible while offering professional performance features.
What kind of stick response can be expected from this cymbal?: The cymbal is designed for a lively stick response with extreme precision. The combination of its medium weight and pinpoint hammering ensures that every strike is clearly defined.
How does the bell sound on the 22" Medium Ride?: The bell character is described as solid and defined. It produces a distinct 'ping' that is isolated from the main wash of the cymbal, making it ideal for rhythmic accents.
Can this cymbal be used for jazz?: While it is a multi-purpose ride, its medium weight and bright shimmering overtones are better suited for modern styles. For traditional jazz, a thinner ride like a Masterwork Iris or Istanbul Agop might be preferred.
How does the lathing affect the performance?: The heavy lathing opens up the cymbal, allowing it to vibrate more freely. This results in the shimmering overtones and full-bodied sound characteristic of the S Family series.
What is the weight class of this specific model?: This model is classified as a 'Medium' ride. This weight provides a balanced mix of stick definition and wash, preventing the sound from becoming too metallic or too airy.
How does it compare to the Meinl HCS series?: The Zildjian S Family is a significant step up from the Meinl HCS series, which is typically made of brass. The S Family offers better tonal complexity, sustain, and durability.
What finish does the Zildjian S Family 22" Medium Ride have?: It features a brilliant finish that contributes to its bright, high-end shimmer. This finish also gives the cymbal a polished, professional aesthetic on stage.
Is this ride cymbal crashable?: Due to its medium weight and 22" size, it has a powerful, loud crash sound. However, it requires more force to open up compared to a dedicated thin crash like the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry.
Does the cymbal come with a warranty?: Typically, Zildjian cymbals come with a two-year manufacturer's warranty against cracking or defects. Buyers should check with their specific retailer for terms at the time of purchase.