Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$79.99
Guitar Center
4.0 (17)
$79.99
Amazon
4.4 (653)
$79.99
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$67.43 New
$39.41 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (37)
$79.99
Thomann
4.0 (40)
$67.00

Average Price: $70

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash a wave of sonic energy with the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal, designed for drummers ready to add a distinctive edge to their sound. This cymbal embodies the perfect fusion of quality and affordability, making it an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate players alike. Crafted in Germany, the HCS China is made from durable MS63 brass alloy, ensuring it stands up to rigorous playing while delivering a consistently impressive sound.

With its explosive, brash attack and deep, trashy undertones, this cymbal becomes an essential tool for creating dramatic accents in pop, rock, or metal genres. The medium sustain ensures it cuts through the mix, adding a unique flair to your performances without overwhelming your kit. Whether you're enhancing a groove or punctuating a breakdown, the Meinl HCS China brings professional-level sound to your setup at an entry-level price.

Pair it with other cymbals in the HCS series, like the HCS Trash Crash or HCS Bell, to expand your creative palette and explore new rhythmic landscapes. The Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal is not just another piece of gear; it's an invitation to elevate your drumming experience and express your musical creativity in bold new ways.

Key Features:

  • 16" size, perfect for a wide range of musical styles
  • Crafted from MS63 brass alloy for durability and tonal consistency
  • Explosive attack with dark, trashy undertones
  • Medium sustain ideal for big accents and dramatic effects
  • Suitable for beginners and intermediate players seeking quality and value

Product specs

Type China
Size 16"
Weight Thin
Finish Traditional
Material MS63
Pitch Low-Mid
Sound Mid-Bright
Sustain Medium to Short
Volume Medium to Low

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal?

The Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal produces a mid-bright sound with a low-mid pitch, offering a trashy, explosive tone that is ideal for adding dynamic accents to your drumming.

Is the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal suitable for beginner drummers?

Yes, the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal is suitable for beginners due to its affordable price point and durable construction, making it a great choice for those starting to explore different cymbal sounds.

What material is the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal made from?

The Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal is made from MS63 brass, which contributes to its durability and bright sound characteristics.

How does the sustain of the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal affect its use in a drum set?

The Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal has a medium to short sustain, making it ideal for quick, sharp accents without lingering overtones, perfect for styles that require fast, punchy cymbal hits.

What is the volume range of the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal?

The Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal has a medium to low volume, making it suitable for practice settings and smaller venues where controlled sound levels are preferred.

MEINL Cymbals

MEINL Cymbals

HCS Series China Cymbals Morph Comparison

Video thumbnail for HCS Series China Cymbals Morph Comparison by MEINL Cymbals

HCS Series China Cymbals Morph Comparison

MEINL Cymbals

MEINL Cymbals

Video thumbnail for Meinl 16" HCS China - 967g by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Meinl 16" HCS China - 967g

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Reviews

PROS

  • Affordable option for beginners and practice kits

  • Quick, trashy sound ideal for metal and breakdowns

  • Durable material, withstands heavy playing without cracking

  • Perfect for small venues or as a secondary accent cymbal

  • Versatile sound, combining low tones with a bright, quick fade

  • Excellent bell sound, adding variety to drumming

  • Lightweight compared to other brands, easier to transport

  • Availability of pre-purchase sound demos aids in decision-making

CONS

  • Chips and cracks more easily than higher-end cymbals

  • Lacks volume and projection for larger performances

  • Some users find the tone too tinny or high-pitched

  • Does not deliver traditional China cymbal "PAH" sound

  • Quality and sound consistency can vary between units

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal.

Comparisons

  • Meinl HCS brass cymbals are commonly contrasted with bronze, with users noting brass's quicker decay and less musical overtones.

    Source
  • Meinl HCS cymbals are often compared unfavorably to used Zildjian and Sabian models, particularly in sound quality and tonal richness.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some owners state that used mid-tier cymbals can offer better sound for only $50 more per cymbal than new HCS options.

    Source

User experience

  • A common viewpoint is that HCS cymbals are suitable for beginners or budget constraints, but noticeable differences emerge when compared to high-end options.

    Source
  • Some users report that the HCS line is satisfactory for entry-level needs, particularly praising the hi-hats' sound when kept closed.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • HCS cymbals are noted to be suitable for practice settings but not ideal for recording or venues requiring high sound clarity.

    Source

3.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Saul Portillo Salinas uses Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal

Saul Portillo Salinas

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by saul_giovanni, Saul Portillo Salinas showcases the Meinl HCS 16" China Cymbal, highlighting its use during his fourth test session this year.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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