Pricing and availability

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Sweetwater
5.0 (3)
$659.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$659.99
Amazon
4.6 (32)
$659.99
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$556.42 New
$532.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$659.99
Thomann
4.9 (12)
$565.00 $555.00 $10.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£517.00

Average Price: $612

High-end/Boutique

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into a world of sonic exploration with the Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals. Engineered for the discerning drummer, these hi-hats blend vintage warmth with a modern edge, offering a versatile sound palette. Crafted from a balanced B20 alloy, they boast a unique construction featuring a traditionally lathed and finished inner surface contrasted by a raw, overhammered outer surface. This distinctive design produces a crisp, articulate sound with a controlled wash—perfect for genres ranging from jazz to rock. The lighter weight of the top and bottom cymbals enhances response and playability, making them a favorite among professional drummers seeking nuanced expression.

These hi-hats excel in delivering rich, organic tones that evoke the classic recordings of the '50s and '60s while offering a contemporary twist. Their extra dry finish ensures minimal sustain, allowing each stroke to stand out with clarity in a mix. Whether you're laying down a steady groove or exploring intricate patterns, these cymbals provide the sonic depth and character you need.

Key Features:

  • Constructed from balanced B20 alloy
  • Traditionally lathed and finished inner surface with a raw, overhammered outer surface
  • Lighter, evenly-matched weight for top and bottom cymbals
  • Produces warm, vintage tones reminiscent of classic recordings
  • Extra dry finish for minimal sustain and clear articulation

Product specs

Brand Meinl
Model 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium-Thin Hi-Hat (Pair)
Finish Un-Lathed
Year 2007 - 2025
Categories Hi-Hats
Diameter 16"

FAQs

What is the sound profile of the Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals?

These hi-hat cymbals offer a dark, dry sound with a fast decay, making them ideal for genres that require subtle articulation and complex tonal textures, such as jazz and fusion.

Are the Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals suitable for live performances?

Yes, these cymbals are well-suited for live performances, providing a unique, raw sound that cuts through the mix without overpowering other instruments.

How does the un-lathed finish affect the sound of these hi-hat cymbals?

The un-lathed finish contributes to the cymbals' dry and earthy tone, reducing sustain and providing a more controlled sound that is perfect for nuanced playing styles.

What types of music are best suited for the Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals?

These cymbals excel in jazz, fusion, and acoustic settings where a complex, subdued sound is desired, but they can also add unique character to rock and pop music.

How does the 16" diameter affect the performance of these hi-hat cymbals?

The 16" diameter provides a deeper, fuller sound compared to smaller hi-hats, offering a broader dynamic range and enhanced volume control for versatile musical expression.

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Meinl Cymbals B16EDMTH Byzance 16" Extra Dry Medium Thin Hihat

Video thumbnail for Meinl Cymbals B16EDMTH Byzance 16" Extra Dry Medium Thin Hihat by MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Meinl Cymbals B16EDMTH Byzance 16" Extra Dry Medium Thin Hihat

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Video thumbnail for Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals (B16EDMTH-1042514Z) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals (B16EDMTH-1042514Z)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi-Hats - 965/1511g (B16EDMTH-1060222D) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi-Hats - 965/1511g (B16EDMTH-1060222D)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals - Played by Luke Holland (B16EDMTH-1092614K) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals - Played by Luke Holland (B16EDMTH-1092614K)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi-Hats - 1019/1483g (B16EDMTH-1113021F) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi-Hats - 1019/1483g (B16EDMTH-1113021F)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals.

Comparisons

  • The 15" Byzance Extra Dry hats are noted for their dark and sloshy sound, making the 16" potentially unnecessary for some players.

    Source
  • These hi-hats aren't considered general-purpose like the New Beats, but they excel in their specific dry sound profile.

    Source
  • Compared to 14" hats, the 16" model can feel "huge" and potentially more suitable for open sounds but less cutting when closed.

    Source
  • Users recommend Zildjian Special Dry hi-hats for a cleaner, more musical sound compared to Meinl's, especially when seeking minimal overtones in recordings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • These hi-hats are ideal for dry, articulate sounds in jazz, fusion, and groove-based music, aligning well with drummers like Nate Wood and Mark Guiliana.

    Source
  • Richard Spaven's fans note these hi-hats integrate well with electronics in D&B and groove music, offering a unique sound blend.

    Source
  • These 16" hats, while considered large, are noted for their suitability in jazz and rock, offering dry attack with jazzy sizzle.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners describe the 16" hi-hats as having a chunky and fuzzy sound, which may be too niche for general use without a more versatile set.

    Source
  • Some owners use larger hi-hats like these for genres outside their typical use, such as metal, noting a preference for their sound over smaller, darker models.

    Source
  • Owners report that newer cymbals might require a break-in period to reduce overtones, as grease from handling can smooth out the sound over time.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Users describe the hi-hats as feeling "soft" or "mushy" under sticks and foot, which differs from the typical response of smaller cymbals.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's essential to ensure your setup can accommodate the larger 16" size, as not all cymbal bags may fit them.

    Source
  • Some users suggest experimenting with rubber felts from Gibraltar to reduce unwanted overtones without affecting the cymbals' playability.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Drum-tacs are effective for reducing hi-hat overtones, though results may vary depending on the cymbal's characteristics and the recording setup.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Garstka uses Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals

Matt Garstka

Drummer

Animals as Leaders

...
Verified via YouTube

In this playthrough of Tooth and Claw by Animals As Leaders, Matt can be see using Meinl extra dry hi hat cymbals.

See how Robert Searight II uses Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals

Robert Searight II

Drummer

Snarky Puppy

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, you can see Robert using his Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals.

See how Jason “JT” Thomas uses Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals

Jason “JT” Thomas

Drummer

Snarky Puppy

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see JT using these in the video.

Album Usage

The Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals has been featured on the following albums:

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 Meinl 16" Byzance Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi Hat Cymbals, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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