Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Reverb
5.0 (1)
$332.10 1 available New
Thomann
4.9 (8)
$306.00 $299.00 $7.00 · All time low

Average Price: $290

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In.". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In. is a masterfully crafted cymbal that captures the essence of versatility and musicality. Perfect for musicians seeking a cymbal that blends seamlessly into any genre, its dark, dry tone and immediate response make it a staple in drumming circles. Whether you're laying down a delicate jazz groove or powering through a rock anthem, this cymbal delivers a rich, controlled sound that is both expressive and precise.

The Traditional Series is renowned for its time-tested design, drawing inspiration from the earliest jazz drummers to contemporary metal artists. Fully lathed for consistency and quality, this cymbal offers a quick-reaction crash that adds depth and texture to your performance. Its musical adaptability makes it a reliable choice for musicians who demand both tradition and innovation from their gear.

Ideal for studio sessions or live performances, the Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In. is not just a piece of equipment—it's an extension of your musical voice.

Key Features:

  • Size: 18"
  • Fully lathed for consistent quality
  • Quick-reaction crash for versatile use
  • Dark, dry tone with immediate response
  • Suitable for a wide range of musical styles

Product specs

Available since May 2013
Hand Hammered Cymbal Yes
Finish Regular, Traditional
Alloy B20 Bronze

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In.?

The Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In. produces a warm, dark tone with a quick decay, making it ideal for adding subtle accents in a variety of musical styles.

Is the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Dark Crash suitable for jazz music?

Yes, the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Dark Crash is well-suited for jazz due to its dark tonal qualities and responsive dynamics, offering a smooth, controlled sound that blends well in jazz ensembles.

What material is the Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash made from?

The Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash is crafted from B20 bronze, a high-quality alloy known for its rich, complex sound and durability.

How does the hand-hammered finish affect the sound of the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Dark Crash?

The hand-hammered finish of the Istanbul Mehmet 18" Dark Crash enhances its tonal complexity and character, providing a unique, organic sound with a more nuanced response.

Is the Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In. suitable for live performances?

Yes, this cymbal is suitable for live performances, offering a versatile sound that can cut through the mix while maintaining musicality in various settings.

Dlikin Drums Production

Dlikin Drums Production

Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Dark Crash 18"

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Dark Crash 18" by Dlikin Drums Production

Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Dark Crash 18"

Dlikin Drums Production

Dlikin Drums Production

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series 18" Dark Crash Cymbal by VicsDrumShop

Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series 18" Dark Crash Cymbal

VicsDrumShop

VicsDrumShop

Video thumbnail for Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Dark Crash 18" by Dlikin Drums Production

Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Dark Crash 18"

Dlikin Drums Production

Dlikin Drums Production

Reviews

PROS

  • Warm, musical sound suitable for diverse genres like Jazz, Funk, and Rock

  • Medium weight allows for dynamic playing, from quiet to moderately loud

  • Versatile; acts as both crash and crash/ride in different settings

  • Dark, non-aggressive tone that complements other cymbals

  • Affordable alternative to premium brands without compromising quality

  • Each handmade piece offers a unique sound character

CONS

  • May lack the power needed for very hard-hitting styles

  • Sound variability due to handmade construction requires individual selection

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In..

User experience

  • The Mehmet Traditional 18" crash has a wash reminiscent of early Black Sabbath albums, favored for heavy blues rock.

    Source
  • Thin cymbals like the Mehmet Traditional series are noted for their flexibility, potentially reducing the likelihood of breaking during intense play.

    Source
  • Owners describe the 18" Dark Crash as having a "celebratory" sound with a focused impact, offering a range of tones and a profound sustain without excessive roar.

    Source
  • Owners using the Traditional Dark in studio settings have observed that certain sizes, like 16" hats, can sound distorted to engineers, though they are often favored in live worship settings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Mehmet cymbals are praised for their dark, low pitch kick, making them suitable for loud, shoegaze-type music.

    Source
  • The Traditional Dark is praised for its long sustain and dark tone, making it suitable for rock and worship music, but less ideal for jazz.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Mehmet cymbals are reported to have more personality under a mic compared to Zildjian K's.

    Source
  • The 16" Agop extra thin crash is noted for its velvety, shimmery sound with long sustain, described as "bigger than life" despite its size.

    Source
  • The Traditional Dark Crash is noted for its ability to produce a sustained ring from even a light tap, providing an expressive dynamic range.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Istanbul Mehmets are described as darker and lighter compared to Zildjian K cymbals, offering a unique sound profile.

    Source
  • Some users suggest that Agop cymbals have a more "oldschool" sound compared to Mehmet, indicating subtle tonal differences between the two brands.

    Source
  • The Xist line produces cleaner, more consistent tones compared to the moodier and tonally complex Traditional Dark series, which feels more buttery and is extensively hammered.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Kazuma Moroishi uses Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In.

Kazuma Moroishi

Drummer

...
Verified via Photo

Kazuma Moroishi uses an Istanbul Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In., as evidenced by a photo he posted on Instagram on September 15, 2018, showing his equipment with the caption "本日対バンツアー2発目 やってきましたWWWX #本日のドラムくん."

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 Mehmet Traditional Series Dark Crash 18 In., it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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