Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Reverb
5.0 (2)
$443.11 New
$388.10 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$600.95
Thomann
4.6 (13)
$515.00 $511.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£422.00

Average Price: $509

High-end/Boutique

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Dive into the soulful resonance of jazz with the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride, an impeccable symbol of craftsmanship and legacy. This cymbal stands as a tribute to Mel Lewis, not just in name but in sound, embodying the essence of traditional Turkish cymbals. Designed with the finesse of a bygone era yet perfect for contemporary setups, it offers a full, responsive, and bright tonal quality that can elevate any performance. Whether you're keeping the rhythm in a smoky jazz club or laying down tracks in the studio, this cymbal's rich and warm character promises to be a versatile companion on your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Crafted as a homage to legendary jazz drummer Mel Lewis
  • Embodies the rich, warm character of early 20th-century Turkish cymbals
  • Full, responsive, and bright tonal profile
  • Includes Mel Lewis's signature logo stamping

Product specs

Available since April 2013
Hand Hammered Cymbal Yes
Finish Brilliant, Glossy
Alloy B20 Bronze

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride?

The Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride offers a warm, complex sound with a clear stick definition and a dark wash, making it ideal for jazz and other nuanced musical styles.

Is the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride suitable for jazz music?

Yes, the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride is specifically designed for jazz, providing a rich, musical tone that complements the genre's dynamic range.

What material is the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride made from?

This ride cymbal is crafted from B20 bronze alloy, known for its durability and ability to produce a full-bodied, resonant sound.

Does the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride have a hand-hammered finish?

Yes, the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride is hand-hammered, contributing to its unique tonal characteristics and artisanal quality.

What is the finish of the Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride?

The cymbal features a brilliant, glossy finish, enhancing its visual appeal and contributing to its bright, shimmering sound.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Signature Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets - 2172g - Carter McLean (ML21-1101716LL)

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Signature Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets - 2172g - Carter McLean (ML21-1101716LL) by Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Signature Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets - 2172g - Carter McLean (ML21-1101716LL)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Agop Mel Lewis 21" Ride (2189g) by Boston Drum Center

Istanbul Agop Mel Lewis 21" Ride (2189g)

Boston Drum Center

Boston Drum Center

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Ride by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Ride

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Ride Cymbal with Rivets - 2090g (ML21-1061822G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Ride Cymbal with Rivets - 2090g (ML21-1061822G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Ride Cymbal with Rivets - 2164g (ML21-1032923M) by Memphis Drum Shop

Istanbul Agop 21" Mel Lewis Ride Cymbal with Rivets - 2164g (ML21-1032923M)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent stick articulation with a touch of sizzle

  • Warm and full crash sound

  • Smooth, buttery stick response

  • Perfect balance between definition and smoky wash

  • Captures every nuance of playing

  • Outstanding craftsmanship honoring Mel Lewis's legacy

  • Harmonizes well with other Istanbul cymbals

  • Rich, complex sound with brilliant undertones

  • Versatile, can be used as both ride and crash

  • Sweet, articulated tone with rivets adding musicality

CONS

  • Requires adjustment to manage sustain

  • Rivets make it slightly diffuse on impact

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride.

Features and functionality

  • The cymbal exhibits a dark tone with a lower pitch, enhanced by rivets that add a sizzly sustain, while remaining quieter and very crashable.

    Source
  • Owners describe the cymbal as having a well-defined stick sound and a great bell, suitable for local drumming without being overly loud.

    Source
  • Rivets on the Mel Lewis ride are highly appreciated for enhancing the sound, with some users feeling compelled to add rivets to other cymbals after experiencing this one.

    Source
  • The 21" Agop Mel Lewis ride provides a shimmery wash beneath the stick definition, which contrasts with the user's existing darker cymbals.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for drummers seeking a darker, elegant sound profile that is both dynamic and articulate, suited for nuanced playing styles.

    Source
  • Described as a "dream ride" by users who have tried it, indicating a strong emotional connection and preference for its unique sound qualities in jazz settings.

    Source
  • Suitable for jazz and rock/indie styles, offering versatility for musicians who play different genres with varying cymbals.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners express significant enjoyment and satisfaction, noting that the ride sounds exceptionally smooth and buttery, enhancing the overall playing experience.

    Source
  • Owners of the Mel Lewis line, including those with different sizes, appreciate the balance between wash and stick definition, highlighting its suitability for nuanced playing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Mel Lewis ride offers more shimmer and brightness compared to heavier cymbals like the 22" TW Tribute Funch and 22" Nefertiti Funch.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Father John Misty uses Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride

Father John Misty

Singer, Guitarist

Fleet Foxes

...
Verified via YouTube

He can be seen playing it on 20:55 of the video

See how Loren Humphrey uses Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride

Loren Humphrey

Drummer

The Last Shadow Puppets

...
Verified via Istanbulcymbals

Istanbul 21" Mel Lewis Ride.

See how Carter McLean uses Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride

Carter McLean

Drummer

...
Verified via Cartermclean

These are some of the ride cymbals he uses, which are listed on his gear page on his website as he is an Istanbul Agop Artist.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Istanbul 21" Agop Mel Lewis Ride, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

More Istanbul Ride Cymbals

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides