Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.0 (1)
$409.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$409.99
Amazon
5.0 (2)
$409.99
Musician's Friend
5.0 (2)
$409.99
Thomann
4.5 (4)
$379.00
Gear4Music
£365.00

Average Price: $404

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Meinl 18 Byzance Traditional Thin Medium Crash". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Crafted with precision, the Meinl 18" Byzance Traditional Thin Medium Crash cymbal merges traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to deliver a cymbal that's nothing short of legendary. Handmade in Turkey, each cymbal is formed using the time-honored B20 alloy formula, consisting of 80% copper and 20% tin. This meticulous process ensures that every strike produces a warm, full-bodied sound that resonates with character and complexity.

The medium-thin build of this cymbal offers a delightful balance between a quick, explosive attack and a smooth, sustained decay. This dynamic range makes it a versatile choice for drummers across genres, from rock and pop to jazz and world music. The cymbal’s traditional finish and careful refinement by Meinl in Germany enhance its aesthetic appeal and acoustic properties, resulting in a piece that looks as stunning as it sounds.

Whether you're playing in an intimate setting or a large venue, the Meinl Byzance Traditional Thin Medium Crash cymbal promises to capture attention and elevate your musical expression. It's more than just a cymbal; it's an invitation to explore new dimensions of sound.

Key Features:

  • Crafted from B20 bronze alloy: 80% copper, 20% tin
  • Handmade in Turkey with a traditional finish
  • Medium-thin build for balanced attack and decay
  • Warm, full-bodied crash sound with dynamic range
  • Versatile for use in multiple genres, from rock to jazz

Product specs

Available since November 2001
Hand Hammered Cymbal Yes
Finish Regular, Traditional
Alloy B20 Bronze

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Meinl 18" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash?

The Meinl 18" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash offers a warm, full-bodied sound with a smooth, shimmering wash. It is versatile enough for various music styles, providing a balanced mix of sustain and decay.

Is the Meinl 18" Byzance Medium Thin Crash suitable for both live performances and studio recording?

Yes, this cymbal's hand-hammered B20 bronze construction and traditional finish make it ideal for both live performances and studio settings, delivering consistent and articulate sound quality.

How does the hand-hammered construction affect the sound of the Meinl Byzance Medium Thin Crash?

The hand-hammered construction adds complexity and character to the cymbal's sound, enhancing its tonal richness and dynamic range, which is perfect for expressive playing.

Is the Meinl 18" Byzance Medium Thin Crash suitable for jazz music?

Yes, this crash cymbal's warm, responsive tone and quick decay make it particularly well-suited for jazz, where nuanced cymbal work is essential.

What is the difference between the Traditional and Brilliant finishes in the Meinl Byzance series?

The Traditional finish offers a more classic, darker sound with a natural look, while the Brilliant finish provides a brighter, more cutting tone with a polished appearance.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 18" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash Cymbal - 1448g (B18MTC-1042921I)

Video thumbnail for Meinl 18" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash Cymbal - 1448g (B18MTC-1042921I) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 18" Byzance Traditional Medium Thin Crash Cymbal - 1448g (B18MTC-1042921I)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptionally balanced sound with no disturbing frequencies

  • Wide dynamic range suitable for various music styles

  • Great response and articulation

  • Versatile use; can double as a finer ride cymbal

  • Highly recommended for rock, funk, and Afro Cuban styles

  • Provides a saving grace moment in performances

CONS

  • Developed cracks shortly after warranty period

  • Less suitable for extremely loud or delicate jazz drumming

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Meinl 18 Byzance Traditional Thin Medium Crash.

User experience

  • Owners find the 18" medium crash to be more sensitive than the 19" medium thin, which is notably louder and trashier.

    Source
  • Inconsistency in sound quality is noted across different crashes, making it crucial to test each cymbal personally before purchasing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The medium thin is generally more expensive online compared to the medium, possibly due to its versatility across styles like rock, funk, and jazz.

    Source
  • Byzance Traditional cymbals are preferred over Zildjian A's, A Customs, and Paiste 2002's for their sound quality in rock settings.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The 18" medium crash is favored for its ability to handle louder, aggressive musical styles such as punk, while still being suitable for diverse genres.

    Source
  • The Byzance Traditional Medium 18" and Medium-Thin 17" handle heavy rock effectively, with the 17" offering unexpected impact as a main crash.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Pure Alloy and Byzance Traditional cymbals complement each other with their more open, ringy sound, enhancing the overall auditory experience when used together.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Clyde Stubblefield uses Meinl 18 Byzance Traditional Thin Medium Crash

Clyde Stubblefield

Drummer

...
Verified via MEINL Cymbals - Artists

AS listed on Clyde's Meinl artist page.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Meinl 18 Byzance Traditional Thin Medium Crash, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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leodallaverde

leodallaverde

Gear IQ 60

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