A cymbal is a circular percussion instrument that produces sound when it is struck with a drumstick or collides with another cymbal. Cymbals come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including hi-hat cymbals, splash cymbals, and ride cymbals. Three cymbals are usually found in a basic drum kit. Two of the most common metals used in cymbal construction are bronze and copper.
Casting and stamping are the two most common methods for making these instruments. Casting entails pouring liquid metal into molds that closely resemble the final dimensions of a cymbal, whereas stamping entails pressing a cymbal shape from a sheet of metal with machines. Some of these instruments are subjected to a high-temperature heat treatment in order to add specific sound characteristics. Heat treatment processes can be used to make metal cymbal models harder. Heat-treating a cymbal can also improve its flexibility.
To achieve the ideal pattern and shape for crisp sounds, a cymbal must be hammered extensively. Individual cymbals can be extremely difficult to hammer by hand. For fast, consistent hammering, many manufacturers use pneumatic hammers. Surface grooves on cymbals are usually made with a metal lathe machine.
A band’s hi-hat cymbal is frequently used as the primary timekeeper. Two cymbals sit atop a specially designed stand to make a high-hat. The bottom cymbal is stationary in a high-hat system, while the top cymbal is moved up and down on a spring along the top of the stand by a foot-operated pedal. The average high-hat cymbal measures between 13 and 14 inches in diameter (about 33 and 35.6 centimeters). To ensure a crisp sound, the bottom cymbal in a typical high-hat system should be slightly thicker than the top one.
The majority of ride cymbals are made in diameters ranging from 18 to 24 inches (45.7 and 61 centimeters). This cymbal, which is usually the largest in a drum kit, can provide a steady rhythm. They have domed centers and come in a variety of thicknesses. The tone and volume of a ride cymbal’s sound are influenced by the thickness of the cymbal and the type of mallet or stick used to strike it. Thicker models have a sharper, louder sound than thinner models.
Splash cymbals, China cymbals, and crash cymbals are all popular types of cymbals. The average splash cymbal produces short, high-pitched sounds. The China cymbal has upturned edges and produces crisp, explosive tones, whereas the crash cymbal accents rhythm.