Pricing and availability

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Sweetwater
4.5 (4)
$299.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$299.99
Amazon
4.4 (56)
$299.99
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$265.00 New
$190.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (83)
$299.99
Thomann
4.3 (6)
$282.00 $280.00 $2.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£266.00

Average Price: $276

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

If you're a drummer looking to elevate your sound with a touch of dark mystique, the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride is your perfect match. This cymbal is crafted from B12 bronze, known for its durability and ability to produce a loud, clear attack. The unique dark patina finish not only gives it a striking visual appeal, but also enhances its sound with rich, complex overtones and a warm, earthy sustain. The result is a ride cymbal that distinctly cuts through the mix, whether you're playing in a metal band or a jazz ensemble.

Its 22-inch diameter provides ample surface area, allowing for both articulate stick definition and a crashable wash of sound. This versatility makes it a go-to choice for drummers across genres, from rock and metal to fusion and beyond. Despite its powerful projection, the cymbal maintains a responsive feel, encouraging expressive performances without the need to overplay.

The Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride doesn't just deliver powerful sound; it also enhances your kit's aesthetic with its dramatic, smoky finish. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, this cymbal is designed to be both a sonic powerhouse and a visual statement.

Key Features:

  • Crafted from B12 bronze for a loud, bright attack
  • Unique dark patina finish for rich, complex overtones
  • 22" size for versatile tonal range
  • Unlathed finish with subtle hammering for balanced articulation and spread
  • Suitable for a wide range of musical styles, including rock, metal, jazz, and fusion

Product specs

Available since January 2017
Hand Hammered Cymbal No
Finish Brillant, Black
Alloy B12 Bronze

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal?

The Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal delivers a complex, dark sound with a clear stick definition and a warm, shimmering wash. It's well-suited for both articulate sticking and powerful crash accents.

Is the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal suitable for rock music?

Yes, the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride is ideal for rock music thanks to its cutting projection and dark tonal qualities, which can effectively cut through loud mixes.

What alloy is used in the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal?

The Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal is made from B12 bronze alloy, which consists of 88% copper and 12% tin, providing a balance of durability and musicality.

Does the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal have a hand-hammered finish?

No, the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal is not hand-hammered. It features a brilliant, black finish that contributes to its distinctive sound and appearance.

How does the finish of the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride affect its sound?

The brilliant, black finish of the Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride cymbal enhances its dark tonal character and provides a visually striking appearance while maintaining a clear, defined sound.

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Meinl Cymbals CC22DAR Classics Custom Dark 22" Ride Cymbal

Video thumbnail for Meinl Cymbals CC22DAR Classics Custom Dark 22" Ride Cymbal by MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Meinl Cymbals CC22DAR Classics Custom Dark 22" Ride Cymbal

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Video thumbnail for Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal - 3505g (CC22DAR-1070718O) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal - 3505g (CC22DAR-1070718O)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal - 3542g (CC22DAR-1031820W) by Memphis Drum Shop

Meinl 22" Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal - 3542g (CC22DAR-1031820W)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Loud, defined ping with minimal wash

  • Versatile for rock, metal, and progressive genres

  • Excellent bell projection and clarity

  • Affordable yet comparable to higher-end models

  • Warm tone with quick decay

  • Musical and dynamic across settings

  • Strong stick definition suitable for heavy styles

  • Accurate sound representation from Meinl's demos

  • Durable, suitable for intense play

CONS

  • Limited crashability, heavy and gong-like

  • Excessive volume may require dampening in small spaces

  • Not ideal for those seeking a lighter, more crashable ride

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride.

User experience

  • The 22" ride is particularly loud; some say it overwhelms other playing styles except for heavy crashing.

    Source
  • The 18" crash offers a thick, wet attack with reverb-like decay, making it well-suited for filling loud settings.

    Source
  • The 16" crash is noted for its sheer attack and simplicity, thriving when struck with force, ideal for loud gigs.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The bell on the ride is highlighted as a standout feature, favored by those upgrading from entry-level cymbals.

    Source
  • The 22" ride is described as very heavy and pingy, which may not appeal to all drummers.

    Source
  • The hi-hat is praised for its bright sound and crisp "chick" when closed, enhancing the overall play experience.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to Zildjian A's, the Meinl Classics Custom Dark is seen as inferior, particularly for drummers accustomed to higher-end cymbals.

    Source
  • The Classics Custom Dark crashes are described as the polar opposite of Zildjian A, lacking brilliance and sounding too dry and dark for some.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A used 22" crash/ride can be found for as low as $100, offering a cost-effective option for budget-conscious buyers.

    Source
  • It's advised to buy cymbals individually for more tailored selection, despite the slightly higher cost per cymbal.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for metal genres due to their loud, cutting sound that can penetrate through dense mixes.

    Source
  • The unique black finish is subtle, providing a noticeable yet not overly tacky appearance.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users have found that applying electrician tape on the underside can help reduce the cymbals' volume, although it's not a complete solution.

    Source

Build quality

  • The cymbals are not hand-hammered, which may affect their tonal quality compared to higher-end options.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Isaias Gil uses Meinl 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride

Isaias Gil

Drummer

Black Flag

...
Verified via Photo

Isaias uses a classic custom dark ride in his setup

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 22'' Classics Custom Dark Ride, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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