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Average Price: $321

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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

The Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets is the perfect blend of classic craftsmanship and modern innovation, designed for versatile drummers who crave nuanced soundscapes. Known for its distinctive flat profile, this cymbal provides a smooth, controlled ride with a warm, mellow tone, making it an ideal choice for jazz and low-volume settings. The addition of rivets enhances its sonic texture, adding a subtle sizzle that complements its primary sound without overwhelming it.

Handcrafted in Turkey, each cymbal in the Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series is individually cast and hammered, ensuring a unique character and superior quality. This meticulous process results in a rich, expressive sound that responds beautifully under a range of dynamics. The flat ride's thinner design allows for exceptional stick definition, offering clarity with every hit, while the rivets provide shimmering sustain.

This cymbal is not only a tool for creating music but also an artistic statement, reflecting the dedication and skill of the artisans who crafted it. Whether you're playing in a cozy jazz club or recording in a professional studio, the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets will elevate your performance with its articulate voice and dynamic versatility.

Key Features:

  • 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal
  • Handcrafted in Turkey
  • Distinctive flat profile for controlled sound
  • Rivets for added sizzle and sustain
  • Ideal for jazz and low-volume settings
  • Superior stick definition and dynamic range
  • Unique sound character from hand-casting and hammering

Product specs

Brand Istanbul Mehmet
Model 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal with Rivets
Year 2010s
Categories Ride Cymbals
Diameter 18"

FAQs

What sound characteristics can I expect from the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal with Rivets?

This cymbal offers a warm, dark tone with a smooth, controlled wash. The rivets add a subtle sizzle, making it ideal for jazz and softer musical styles.

How do the rivets affect the sound of the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal?

The rivets contribute a gentle, shimmering sustain that enhances the cymbal's overall sound, providing a unique texture suitable for jazz and ambient music.

Is the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal with Rivets suitable for live performances?

Yes, this cymbal's warm, controlled sound with added sizzle from the rivets makes it well-suited for live jazz and acoustic performances.

What type of music is best suited for the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal with Rivets?

This cymbal is particularly well-suited for jazz, blues, and softer music genres due to its warm tone and subtle sizzle from the rivets.

How does the size of the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal affect its sound?

The 18" size provides a balanced sound with enough projection for small to medium venues, while maintaining a controlled, nuanced tone ideal for jazz and softer music styles.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Istanbul Mehmet 18" Traditional Series Flat Ride Cymbal w/ Rivets.

Build quality

  • Hand-hammered construction leads to unique sound variations; each Mehmet cymbal can differ in thickness and hammering details.

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Use cases and applications

  • Mehmet cymbals are often preferred for jazz due to their complex, well-balanced sound, but they adapt well to various genres.

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  • The Mel Lewis 21" and up rides are noted for their loudness, making them ideal for big band settings while maintaining a superb sound.

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  • For a sound similar to Roy Haynes, a Paiste 602 flat ride or a modern flat ride around 18" in medium weight is recommended, mimicking the Corea "he sings, sobs" era.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Proper technique and setup, like angling cymbals and allowing movement on stands, can prevent edge damage and prolong life.

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Comparisons

  • Mehmet cymbals often compared to Agop for their uniqueness, with some drummers preferring Mehmet for their hand-hammered authenticity reminiscent of K-Zildjian mythology.

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  • The Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Flat Ride is suggested alongside the Agop Mel Lewis for its crashability in jazz, offering a distinctive sound compared to brands like Zildjian or Sabian.

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  • Paiste 602 rides are mentioned as versatile for jazz, offering a brighter sound that can emulate Joe Morello's style, providing a middle ground for various musical styles.

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User experience

  • Owners report that pre-split Istanbuls and early Mehmets were heavier, offering better projection, while newer models are thinner but not necessarily less durable.

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Features and functionality

  • The Paiste Masters series, particularly the Bluebird, is highlighted for its suitability in jazz, offering a selection of 12 rides, all crafted from B20 bronze.

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