Looking for the best electronic drum cymbals? Perfect. We, at TheNationalParksMusic.com, have scoured through endless lists of electronic cymbals to provide a comprehensive list.
We’ve also included more information about drum cymbals answering questions like:
- What Are The Different Types of Electronic Drum Cymbals?
- How Do Electronic Drum Cymbals Work?
- What Do You Look For In The Best Electronic Drum Cymbals?
Our guide compares the products in terms of performance, sensitivity, cost, and durability. So, let’s dive in and see what electronic cymbals are best for you.
Our Top 7 Electronic Drum Cymbals
Roland CY-5 Electric Drum Splash (Our Top Pick)
- Amazing value cymbal
- Functions as splash, hi-hat or crash
- Choke function
Pintech Percussion Electronic Cymbal (Best Budget)
- Accurate trigger sensor
- Piezo trigger technology
- Affordable
Roland CY-13R Electric Drum Cymbal (Best High End)
- Natural swing
- Triple zones
- Accurate sensitivity
Yamaha PCY100 10” Electronic Cymbal Pads
- Three zones
- Accurate sensitivity
- Awesome quality
Roland OP-TD1V Cymbal Set
- Extra mounting hardware
- Two trigger zones
Alesis 10 Inch Cymbal With Choke
- Compatible with most models
- Long 19” cymbal arm
- Choke function
Lemon 18” 3-Zone Premium Electronic Cymbal
- Unbelievable value for money
- Decent trigger response
What Are Electronic Drum Cymbals?
An electronic cymbal comprises all the types of cymbals in a typical drum set into one piece of equipment. You can use it as a ride cymbal, crash cymbal, etc. Plus, it gives a drummer endless possibilities in sound production since it isn’t tied to any genre.
To play different genres, dial in the preferred sound and the electronic drum cymbal will play according to tune. Most electronic cymbals will come with preset patterns to help you become an expert.
Some electronic cymbals even come with metronomes suitable for beginners to develop timing and muscle memory when playing.
What Are The Different Types of Electronic Drum Cymbals?
Like most acoustic instruments, we can split electronic drum cymbals according to functions and size. Let’s look at the common distinctions of electronic drum cymbals.
Crash Cymbal
The electronic crash cymbal offers a crisp, light sound when struck. In typical acoustic settings, it would be as big as 18”, but electronic types are smaller in size than circuits, and not the surface diameter achieves the sound.
The crash cymbal is used sparingly in a set since it is powerful and one of the loudest. Electronic crash cymbals are used to create a dramatic effect in music.
Ride Cymbal
The ride cymbal is used to maintain a constant rhythm to the music as it typically rides with it. Depending on the manufacturer, the different points of the cymbals may produce different sounds.
Ride cymbals have a softer sound than crash cymbals, but the volume can be adjusted on the triggers. It is standard for a ride cymbal to be placed on the right-hand side just behind the toms.
Hi-hat Cymbals
Electronic hi-hat cymbals are probably the smallest in size and are used to maintain time signatures in music. Also, it has a matching pair of cymbals that are controlled by the foot pedal. Although the size of acoustic hi-hats matters, electronic hi-hat cymbals can be made in any size since they don’t affect the sound produced.
Dual Zone Cymbals
Electronic cymbals have trigger zones where the drummer hits to produce sounds. A dual-zone cymbal has two zones, each with its specific sound when hit. The zones are mapped to simulate acoustic cymbals so the musician can experience the instrument realistically.
Dual-zone cymbals have the bow zone and the edge zone. The bow zone is the inner part of the cymbal and occupies about three-quarters of the plate. The outer zone, the edge zone, has a different sound and produces a thinner sound.
Multi-Zone Cymbals
Cymbals with more than two zones are classified as multi-zone cymbals. There are extra zones to increase flexibility and allow a musician access to different sounds simultaneously. A common multi-zone cymbal is a three-zone variant that has a bell zone. The bell zone is the most inner part of the cymbal and produces a rigid sound and solid pattern.
How Do Electronic Drum Cymbals Work?
The electronic cymbal operates electronically. It has a sound-receiving sensor that is connected to an output source.
The most important part of the electronic cymbal is the pad. It is the surface that receives the taps to reproduce sound. Most cymbal pads are made of rubber since it is easily available and last a lifetime.
Other cymbals may be made of steel or iron. These cymbals cost much more since they give you a natural feeling while on stage or studio. You can create your preset sounds on the cymbals and mimic hundreds of cymbal sounds- a nice way for beginners to get their feet wet.
Since the electronic cymbals are digital, you need a sound output to hear what you’re playing. Consider studio headphones if you’re practicing at home or connect to amplifiers when p[laying to a crowd.
What Do You Look For In The Best Electronic Drum Cymbals?
Apart from learning how to play, electronic cymbals’ biggest challenge is choosing a perfect piece. Though we don’t have one answer to these questions, we have pointed out several must-dos before buying one.
In the end, let your ears be the deciding factor and ensure whatever you buy is in sync with your preferences.
Connectivity
As you go shopping for electric cymbals, you need to check the connectors and ports. If you live in an urban area, you might want a cymbal with headphone connectivity to avoid disturbing the neighbors. This way, you can practice any time and for a long without invading anyone’s peace.
Your electronic cymbal should also be able to connect with other parts of a drum kit for a wholesome play. You may mix brands while assembling your drum set but as you get professional, consider sticking to one brand.
Sound Quality
Knowing the best-sounding cymbals may depend on your wits. It is a rather subjective option but all in all, it makes a difference. For instance, it may be impossible to gauge sound quality if you’re buying online. But a quick search through genuine reviews will give you a hint about whether the cymbal is a hit or a miss.
Choke Control
One thing you should mind about electronic cymbals is the choke control. It allows you to equalize and suppress the cymbal without much effort. It is an important feature during production as it helps you produce sound in the right pitch, tone, and volume. Look for electronic cymbals with large choke control zones for better quality.
Size
Electronic cymbals have varying sizes, and although it doesn’t affect the sound output, it’s still a crucial consideration. The size of your cymbal should be relative to your entire drum set, and consider how much space is available. The cymbals come in 10, 12, 14, 15, and 18-inch options.
Best Electronic Drum Cymbals Reviewed
Roland CY-5 Electric Drum Splash (Our Top Pick)
When we pick the top electronic drum cymbal, we ensure it has passed all tests of functionality, value, and performance. Roland knows how to make audio equipment, and it didn’t disappoint with the CY-5 Electronic Drum Cymbal.
They have a 10-inch play zone and separate triggering zones in the bow zone. This means you can produce different sounds, but not as much as multi-zone cymbals. The CY-5 perfectly mimics an acoustic cymbal with its swinging nature, weight, and shape.
There is also a choking system to help flatten out sounds. For the money, this cymbal is worth every buck as it offers a decent piece of hi-hat cymbal for your drum set.
Pros
- Amazing value cymbal
- Functions as splash, hi-hat, or crash
- Choke function
Cons
- Only a small surface on the cymbal is playable
- Cymbal swing is not as convincing
Pintech Percussion Electronic Cymbal (Best Budget)
When we talk about a budget-friendly product, we don’t mean the cheapest in the market. The Pintech PC10 Percussion Cymbal is pretty affordable and has remarkable features, such as its precision-sensitive pads.
This electronic cymbal is something beginners will fancy as you can play it at home without interference. Plus, the versatile pad is made of a high-quality polymer that is decent enough to last a few years. While it is not the ideal piece for professionals, the Pintech Percussion cymbal is a great deal for this price.
Pros
- Accurate trigger sensor
- Piezo trigger technology
- Affordable
- Quiet
Cons
- Limited playing zones
Roland CY-13R Electric Drum Cymbal (Best High End)
Now, if you’re already into drumming and want to take it to the next level, this piece is a perfect pick. The Roland CY-13R Electric Drum Cymbal has a unique design, pretty similar to acoustic cymbals.
It is a triple-zone cymbal, which means it has three parts programmed to produce specific sounds- the bell, bow, and edge zones. This easily makes it one of the most versatile cymbals on our list.
Still, on versatility, you can use it as a v-cymbal ride or a crash cymbal. We liked the rubber material added on top as it plays well with drumsticks. However, you’ll need a little bit of investment to grab one of these.
Pros
- Natural swing
- Triple zones
- Accurate sensitivity
Cons
- Premium price point
Yamaha PCY100 10” Electronic Cymbal Pads
Yamaha is already well-known in audio equipment, and this one did not disappoint. The Yamaha PCY100 10” Electronic Cymbal is a quality build cymbal with a professional and unique look. The dotted pattern speaks of Yamaha and separates it from any other cymbal on the market.
As a versatile piece, you get three zones, the upper zone, bow, and edge, for different sound projections. You wouldn’t feel any different while playing this cymbal compared to an acoustic cymbal.
It has a responsive choke capability for all sound controls, which helps you separate different sound dynamics when you play.
Pros
- Three zones
- Accurate sensitivity
- Awesome quality
- Choke-enabled
Cons
- Has compatibility issues with other brands
Roland OP-TD1V Cymbal Set
The Roland OP-TD1V was the only electronic cymbal with mounting hardware and space for an extra cymbal in this list. It is a 10-inch electronic cymbal with a playing zone and two triggers- the edge and the bow.
Like most Roland products, this pad has high craftsmanship with natural swinging movements when struck. Its acoustic feel is something to consider, although they do cost a bit.
Pros
- Extra mounting hardware
- Two trigger zones
Cons
- Compatibility issues
Alesis 10 Inch Cymbal With Choke
Alesis is a new player in electronic cymbals, and so far, they’re on the right track. The Alesis 10-inch Cymbal delivers a natural acoustic feel when striking the pad. It is a dual-zone cymbal, so you might not have many sound options while playing.
The cymbal set comes with everything needed to set up your kit, clamp, cymbal trigger, cable, arms, etc. It is compatible with Surge Mesh Kit, Forge Kit, Crimson Kits, and popular brands like Roland and Yamaha.
Pros
- Compatible with most models
- Long 19” cymbal arm
- Choke function
Cons
- Not as good as Yamaha
Lemon 18” 3-Zone Premium Electronic Cymbal
The Lemon 18” electronic cymbal is an excellent model, and one musicians often overlook. It is a gem worth adding to your set as it comes at a reasonable price twice the size of most electronic cymbals.
It has a premium rubber pad with sensitive triggers matching big brands, and its universal compatibility with drum kits is a big plus. The electronic cymbal has three playing zones, the bow, bell, and edge so you can play around with different sounds.
Pros
- Unbelievable value for money
- Decent trigger response
Cons
- Flat belly may not be similar to an acoustic cymbal
Final Thoughts On Electronic Drum Cymbals
We understand how stressful looking for electronic drum cymbals can be, particularly if it’s your first shot.
That’s why we came up with this article and help you make smart purchase decisions. Of course, we rooted for the Roland CY-5 Electronic Drum Cymbal as our top pick since it had a good price point and durable materials. But you can find great gems if you understand your preferences.
Whether you are a pro or a newbie drummer, this guide will help satisfy your needs. All in all, we hope you’ll find the perfect electronic drum cymbal for your kit.
