Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $398

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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

The Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hats are a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, crafted to elevate your percussion experience. These hi-hats are the epitome of handcrafted artistry, featuring traditional hammering techniques that imbue each cymbal with a unique character and tonal profile. Ideal for drummers seeking a balance between a crisp, defined chick and a rich, full-bodied wash, these hi-hats cater to a diverse range of musical styles.

Engineered with precision, they boast a narrow blade lathing on both the top and bottom cymbals, ensuring a matched weight for an even, responsive feel. The result is a wide dynamic range, offering a soft, warm sound palette that remains unobtrusive yet controlled. Whether you're playing in an intimate jazz setting or driving the beat in a rock ensemble, the Meinl Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hats deliver consistently impressive performance, making them an essential component of any drummer's setup.

Key Features:

  • Hand-matched by expert cymbal smiths for unique tonal pairings
  • Traditional hammering techniques for a distinctive sound
  • Narrow blade lathing on both top and bottom cymbals
  • Matched weight for balanced performance
  • Wide dynamic spectrum with a soft, warm sound
  • Crisp, defined chick with a rich, full wash

Product specs

Brand Meinl
Model 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat (Pair)
Year 2001 - 2025
Categories Hi-Hats
Diameter 16"

FAQs

What type of music is the Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat best suited for?

The Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat is versatile and well-suited for a variety of music styles including jazz, rock, and pop. Its traditional finish and medium weight offer a balanced sound that blends well in diverse musical settings.

How does the sound of the Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat compare to other hi-hats?

This hi-hat provides a warm, dark, and complex sound with a smooth, buttery response. It stands out for its ability to deliver crisp articulation when closed and a full-bodied wash when open, making it a favorite among drummers seeking a dynamic range.

What materials are used in the construction of the Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat?

The Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat is crafted from B20 bronze, known for its durability and rich tonal qualities. This high-quality alloy contributes to the cymbal's distinctive sound and longevity.

Is the Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat is ideal for live performances due to its excellent projection and dynamic responsiveness. Its versatility allows it to cut through a mix while maintaining musicality in various live settings.

How does the size of the Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat affect its sound?

The 16-inch size of the Meinl Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hat offers a broader, more open sound compared to smaller hi-hats. This larger diameter provides increased volume and sustain, making it suitable for both studio work and live gigs.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi Hat Cymbals - Siros Vaziri 1413/1593g (B16MH-1011918G)

Video thumbnail for Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi Hat Cymbals - Siros Vaziri 1413/1593g (B16MH-1011918G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi Hat Cymbals - Siros Vaziri 1413/1593g (B16MH-1011918G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hats - 1398/1568g - Played by Harry Miree (B16MH-1090314H) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 16" Byzance Traditional Medium Hi-Hats - 1398/1568g - Played by Harry Miree (B16MH-1090314H)

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 Traditional Medium Hi-Hat.

Comparisons

  • The Meinl Byzance 16" Traditional Medium Hi-Hats are noted for being bigger and slightly sloshy compared to typical sizes, offering versatility for jazz and fusion genres.

    Source
  • For a sloshy and buttery sound, using two 16" crashes as hi-hats is recommended, but be aware of the lighter weight and less defined chick sound compared to traditional hi-hat setups.

    Source
  • The 15" hats are often seen as a balanced choice for versatility across music styles, particularly between sizes 13" and 16".

    Source
  • Owners often find that Paiste cymbals offer more consistency in sound compared to Meinl, which is known for significant variation between identical models due to hand-hammering.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the versatility of the 16" size, though it may feel sloshy or "mushy" under the stick, which can take some adjustment.

    Source
  • Despite concerns about their large size, multiple users find the 16" Traditional Medium Hi-Hats to be their daily drivers, offering a unique sound profile.

    Source
  • Users find the 16" Extra Dry Medium Thin Hi-Hats record exceptionally well and provide a buttery feel, making them a favorite among jazz and fusion players.

    Source
  • The variability in Meinl Byzance cymbals can result in vastly different sounds even among the same model, making in-person testing crucial for finding the desired tone.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • These hi-hats are praised for their suitability in jazz, fusion, and groove-based music, with a sound that aligns with artists like Tigran Hamasyan and Jojo Mayer.

    Source
  • The 16" Byzance Dark Crash paired with a 16" Byzance Thin Crash is favored by Arthur Hnatek for a unique sound, though it's considered a pricey option.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adjusting the hi-hat clutch to a looser setting can help reduce a metallic sound and enhance a half-closed sizzle effect.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • It's suggested that buying cymbals in person, despite longer travel, ensures satisfaction and justifies the cost by allowing direct comparison and selection.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The manufacturing process, including extensive hammering and patina application, contributes to the dark and trashy sound signature of Meinl cymbals.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Meinl Hi-hat Cymbals

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides