10 Best Cymbal Sets 2025 in the United States

The Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Complete Cymbal Set is a fantastic choice for beginner and student drummers looking to upgrade their drum kit. This set includes a pair of 14-inch Hi-Hats, a 16-inch Crash, and a 20-inch Ride cymbal, covering the standard sizes most drummers need. Made from a unique nickel-silver alloy, these cymbals are crafted in the USA and produce bright, cutting tones with short sustain, making them suitable for various music genres.

The traditional bright finish adds a classic look to the cymbals and enhances their visual appeal on stage. One of the set's significant strengths is its affordability, providing a cost-effective way for beginners to complete their sound without compromising quality. However, more experienced drummers may find the sound lacking in depth and complexity compared to higher-end cymbals. Additionally, the relatively short sustain might not be ideal for all types of music.

The compact dimensions of the packaging make it easy to transport and store. In summary, the Zildjian Planet Z Complete Cymbal Set is an excellent entry-level option that offers great value for money, especially for those just starting their drumming journey.

The Meinl Cymbals CC-141620+18 Classics Custom Bonus Pack is a comprehensive cymbal set that's designed to enhance your drum kit both sonically and visually. Made in Germany, these cymbals boast high-tech German engineering, ensuring a consistent, bright tone and durability. The set includes a 14" hihat pair, a 16" crash, a 20" ride, and an added bonus of an 18" crash. This variety provides a wide range of sounds suitable for rock, metal, fusion, worship, and other high-energy music styles like pop, R&B, and funk.

The cymbals are crafted from B12 bronze alloy, known for its strength and ability to produce loud, controlled sounds with a clean tone and brilliant finish. This makes them particularly effective in scenarios with heavy amplification, such as concerts with distortion-charged guitars. The medium weight of these cymbals offers a balanced dynamic range, making them versatile for various playing techniques and musical expressions.

If you're looking for a more subtle or softer sound, these might not be the best choice due to their loud and clear projection. The set is ideal for drummers who want to be heard and need durable, high-quality cymbals that offer a professional look and sound.

The Meinl Cymbals HCS Ultimate Cymbal Set is a comprehensive package for beginner and intermediate drummers, featuring nine pieces made from durable MS63 brass alloy. This set includes 14" hihats, a 20" ride, multiple crashes (14", 16", and 18"), a 14" china, an 8" bell, a 10" splash, and a free 16" trash crash. The brass alloy construction ensures a clean, bright, and crisp tone, which is ideal for various musical styles.

The cymbals are also designed to withstand heavy playing without easily denting or bending, providing a long lifespan. Additionally, the traditional finish gives the cymbals a shimmering appearance that enhances the look of any drum kit, and the professional logo treatment adds to their aesthetic appeal. Being made in Germany, these cymbals benefit from Meinl's extensive experience in cymbal crafting since 1951, promising reliable quality and performance.

While the set offers a wide range of sounds and creative possibilities, it may not fully satisfy advanced drummers seeking the nuanced tones and dynamic response of high-end cymbals. Moreover, at 18 pounds, the set is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for portability. Nevertheless, with a 2-year warranty, these cymbals provide a trustworthy option for those looking to upgrade from basic starter cymbals.