Crash Cymbal on Stand: Setup & Buying Guide

The sonic landscape of a drum kit significantly expands with the inclusion of a crash cymbal on stand, an essential component influencing a drummer’s expressive capabilities. Zildjian, a leading manufacturer, produces various crash cymbals, each possessing unique tonal qualities. Optimal placement of a crash cymbal on stand often involves adjusting the stand’s height and angle, a process simplified by utilizing tools like drum keys. Achieving effective cymbal placement impacts a drummer’s reach and playing ergonomics, directly influencing performance quality in diverse settings such as live concerts or recording sessions within studios.

Setting Up and Buying the Right Crash Cymbal on Stand

The crash cymbal is a cornerstone of any drum kit, providing impactful accents and dynamic flair. However, a great cymbal can be hindered by a poorly chosen or improperly set up stand. This guide provides a comprehensive look at selecting the ideal crash cymbal and stand, as well as properly setting it up for optimal performance.

Understanding the Components: Cymbal and Stand

Before delving into setup and buying tips, it’s essential to understand the individual components: the crash cymbal and the stand.

• Crash Cymbal: Crash cymbals are designed to produce a bright, explosive sound. They typically range in size from 14" to 20", with smaller cymbals offering a higher pitch and faster decay, while larger cymbals provide a deeper tone and longer sustain. Key characteristics include:

  • Size: Impacts pitch and sustain.
  • Thickness: Affects volume and brightness. Thinner cymbals are more responsive and warmer, while thicker cymbals are louder and brighter.
  • Alloy: Bronze alloys (B20, B8, etc.) impact the tonal characteristics. B20 alloys are generally considered higher-end and offer more complex tones.
  • Lathing/Hammering: Lathing refers to the grooves on the cymbal and hammering refers to the dents on cymbal. These impact the sonic characteristics.

• Cymbal Stand: A good cymbal stand provides stability, adjustability, and allows the cymbal to resonate freely. Key features include:

  • Base Type: Tripod bases are standard, offering stability. Heavier bases provide more stability. Some stands feature flat bases.
  • Boom vs. Straight: Boom stands offer greater flexibility in positioning the cymbal, while straight stands are simpler and more compact.
  • Tube Diameter: Thicker tube diameters generally indicate a more robust and stable stand.
  • Height Adjustment: A wide height adjustment range is crucial for accommodating different drumming styles and preferences.
  • Tilter Mechanism: This allows you to angle the cymbal for comfortable playing. Look for a tilter that holds its position securely.

Choosing the Right Stand

Selecting the appropriate stand is crucial for both the cymbal’s sound and the drummer’s comfort. Consider the following factors:

1. Cymbal Size and Weight: A larger, heavier cymbal requires a more robust stand to prevent wobbling or tipping.
2. Playing Style: Aggressive drummers require more stable stands.
3. Available Space: In tight spaces, a straight stand might be preferable to a boom stand.
4. Budget: Stands range from entry-level to professional-grade. Investing in a quality stand will improve both the cymbal’s sound and its longevity.

Setting Up Your Crash Cymbal and Stand

Proper setup is critical for optimal sound and playability. Follow these steps:

1. Positioning: Place the stand in a location that is comfortable to reach and allows the cymbal to resonate freely. The cymbal should be within easy reach of your stick, without requiring excessive stretching.
2. Height Adjustment: Adjust the stand’s height so that the cymbal is at a comfortable playing height. Experiment to find the height that allows you to strike the cymbal with a natural motion.
3. Tilting: Angle the cymbal slightly towards you. This allows you to strike the cymbal with a glancing blow, which produces a fuller sound and reduces the risk of cracking.
4. Wing Nut and Felt Washers: Use felt washers above and below the cymbal to protect it from metal-on-metal contact with the stand. Tighten the wing nut just enough to hold the cymbal in place, but not so tight that it restricts its movement. The cymbal should be able to swing freely.
5. Boom Arm Angle (If Applicable): If using a boom stand, adjust the angle of the boom arm to position the cymbal precisely where you want it. Ensure that the boom arm is counterweighted to prevent the stand from tipping over.
6. Testing and Adjustment: Play the cymbal and listen carefully to the sound. Make adjustments to the height, tilt, and positioning until you achieve the desired sound and feel. Pay attention to resonance and sustain.

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know to confidently choose and set up your perfect crash cymbal on stand. Go forth, experiment with placement, find the sound that inspires you, and most importantly, have fun unleashing your creativity behind the kit!