Pricing and availability

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Guitar Center
4.5 (17)
$279.99
Amazon
4.6 (69)
$279.99
Musician's Friend
4.0 (30)
$279.99
zZounds
4.5 (3)
$224.99
Thomann
4.4 (64)
$232.00
Gear4Music
£209.00

Average Price: $259

Budget/Beginner

$300

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock the rhythm of your music with the Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set, a perfect companion for aspiring drummers ready to enhance their beat-making prowess. Crafted from MS63 alloy, these cymbals deliver a harmonious blend of warm, balanced tones that resonate beautifully in any setting. Whether you're jamming in the garage or taking your first steps onto the stage, this set offers exceptional quality at an entry-level price.

Designed with the beginner in mind, the Meinl HCS set includes all the essential cymbals to complete a basic drum kit. The 14" hi-hat pair offers a crisp, articulate sound that punctuates your grooves, while the 16" crash provides a powerful accent when you need to make a statement. Meanwhile, the 20" ride cymbal delivers a rich, full-bodied sound that seamlessly integrates with your performance, offering a clear stick response and medium sustain.

This set is not just about sound—it's about building your foundation as a drummer. The medium-weight cymbals with a traditional finish are standard-sized, ensuring compatibility with most drum kits. This makes them an ideal choice for beginners looking to outfit their setup with quality gear that supports their musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Includes 14" hi-hat pair, 16" crash, and 20" ride
  • Made from MS63 alloy for warm and balanced tones
  • Medium-weight cymbals with traditional finish
  • Clear stick response with medium sustain
  • Essential setup for beginners looking to complete a drum kit

Product specs

Available since March 2007
Configurations 1x Hi-Hat, 1x Ride, 1x Crash
Inc. Cymbal Bag / Case No
Alloy Brass

FAQs

What is included in the Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set?

The Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set includes a 14" hi-hat pair, a 16" crash, and a 20" ride cymbal, providing essential core cymbal types for a basic drum kit.

Is the Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set is ideal for beginners, offering standard sizes and essential cymbal types to complete a basic drum kit.

What material are the Meinl HCS cymbals made from?

The Meinl HCS cymbals are made from brass, which is known for its durability and bright, clear sound suitable for entry-level players.

Do the Meinl HCS cymbals come with a cymbal bag or case?

No, the Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set does not include a cymbal bag or case.

How would you describe the sound characteristics of the Meinl HCS cymbals?

The Meinl HCS cymbals offer a clear stick response with medium sustain, providing a balanced sound that complements a variety of music styles.

Are the Meinl HCS cymbals medium-weight?

Yes, the Meinl HCS cymbals are medium-weight and feature a traditional finish, contributing to their versatile sound profile.

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Meinl HCS Cymbals

Video thumbnail for Meinl HCS Cymbals by Gear4music Guitars

Meinl HCS Cymbals

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for Meinl HCS Cymbal Set: 20" Ride; 16" Crash; 14" HiHat; 10" Splash test demo budget cheap pack by SIC MIC

Meinl HCS Cymbal Set: 20" Ride; 16" Crash; 14" HiHat; 10" Splash test demo budget cheap pack

SIC MIC

SIC MIC

Video thumbnail for HCS Expanded Cymbal Set by Meinl Cymbals HCS14161820 by MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

HCS Expanded Cymbal Set by Meinl Cymbals HCS14161820

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

MEINL Cymbals - Official Product Videos

Reviews

PROS

  • Crisp hi-hats with good stick response and minimal sustain

  • Ride cymbal offers solid sound with a surprisingly good bell

  • Durable construction even with heavy play

  • Offers more cymbal diameter for the price compared to competitors

  • Great entry-level set for beginners or those upgrading from starter kits

  • Well-made with minimal signs of wear over time

  • Loud, sharp, and cutting sound despite being brass

  • Attractive polished brass look

  • Excellent value for money

CONS

  • Crash lacks expected decay and brightness

  • High hats and crash sometimes sound dull or cheap

  • Some users find them too thick for long-term use

  • Not ideal for professional recording or high-end performance

Critic Reviews

Meinl HCS Review – Popular Budget Cymbals for a Reason?

musicstrive.blog

Meinl's HCS Complete Cymbal Set stands out in the budget category, offering surprisingly sweet sounds for brass cymbals under $100. With a comprehensive range that caters to beginners and those looking to upgrade, the set includes a rare splash cymbal, making it a unique offering. The hi-hats are particularly impressive, delivering a smooth wash that beginners will love. However, these cymbals lack dynamic responsiveness and may not satisfy intermediate or professional drummers seeking nuanced tones. Overall, while the HCS set isn't without its flaws, it delivers exceptional value for its price, making it a solid choice for novice players.

positive

Meinl HCS Review - Best Budget Cymbals? (2025)

drumhelper.com

For beginner drummers on a budget, the Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set delivers surprisingly musical tones without breaking the bank. With a solid build and decent sound quality, these brass cymbals shine in versatility and playability, especially the crisp hi-hats and responsive splash. However, don't expect professional-grade performance; the crash cymbal leaves much to be desired with its lack of refinement, and the overall sound is still a step below bronze alternatives. While perfect for starters, serious drummers will soon find themselves yearning for an upgrade. If you're just getting started, this set offers remarkable value—just know it's a stepping stone, not a destination.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how zimorog uses Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set

zimorog

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:20 we can see Meinl HCS is printed on his hi-hat and crash.

D

Dmitri Bold

Singer, Guitarist

Caution In Operation

...
Verified via Photo

In a documented photo from a ROD demo session featuring Dmitri Bold, the Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set is clearly visible, showcasing the 18" and 16" Meinl HCS crash cymbals, 14" HCS hi-hats, 18" HCS china, and 20" HCS ride, confirming Bold's use of this equipment.

See how Amin Kazemi uses Meinl HCS Complete Cymbal Set

Amin Kazemi

Drummer

Awoken

...
Verified via Photo

This is Amin's cymbal set used on his drum set as well taken from above.

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 HCS Complete Cymbal Set, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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djjowell

djjowell

Gear IQ 480

yuanmondragon

yuanmondragon

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