Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $964

High-end/Boutique

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Zildjian 20" Kerope". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

In the world of cymbals, the Zildjian 20" Kerope stands out as a timeless masterpiece. With its roots deeply embedded in the old-world Turkish tradition, this ride cymbal embodies both history and innovation. Each cymbal is meticulously hand-hammered by master craftsmen, offering a smoky, atmospheric sound that is both rich and expressive. Its medium-thin weight coupled with a medium-sized bell provides a balanced response that's perfect for both ride patterns and crash accents. Whether you're laying down a subtle jazz groove or driving a rock ballad, the Kerope's versatility is undeniable. Its moody pings and lush wash make it an indispensable tool for any drummer seeking to add depth and character to their sound.

Key Features:

  • Medium-thin weight for versatile performance
  • Hand-hammered design for authentic, rich tones
  • Medium-sized bell for balanced accents
  • Crafted in the traditional Turkish style for a classic sound
  • Perfect for both ride and crash applications

Product specs

Brand Zildjian
Model 20" K Kerope Crash/Ride Cymbal
Finish Traditional, Traditional
Year 2014 - 2025
Made In United States
Categories Crash Cymbals, Ride Cymbals
Diameter 20"

FAQs

What musical styles is the Zildjian 20" Kerope cymbal best suited for?

The Zildjian 20" Kerope cymbal is versatile, making it ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock. Its warm, dark tones provide a vintage sound that blends well in acoustic settings.

Can the Zildjian 20" Kerope be used as both a crash and a ride cymbal?

Yes, the Zildjian 20" Kerope is designed to function as both a crash and a ride cymbal, offering a full-bodied crash sound and a smooth, controlled ride.

How does the traditional finish of the Zildjian 20" Kerope affect its sound?

The traditional finish on the Zildjian 20" Kerope enhances its warm, complex tones, contributing to its vintage character and providing a softer, more mellow sound.

Is the Zildjian 20" Kerope suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Zildjian 20" Kerope is suitable for live performances due to its dynamic range and ability to project warm, rich tones that cut through a mix without being overpowering.

What is the weight range of the Zildjian 20" Kerope cymbal?

The Zildjian 20" Kerope typically falls within a medium-thin weight range, which contributes to its versatility and ability to function effectively as both a crash and ride cymbal.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 1962g (KR20R-1062320G)

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 1962g (KR20R-1062320G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 1962g (KR20R-1062320G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 2006g (KR20R-1041618D) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 2006g (KR20R-1041618D)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 20" Kerope - 2170g by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Zildjian 20" Kerope - 2170g

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 1838g (KR20R-1041222N) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 1838g (KR20R-1041222N)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 1990g (KR20R-1063022I) by Memphis Drum Shop

Zildjian 20" Kerope Ride Cymbal - 1990g (KR20R-1063022I)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Warm, dark, dry tone suitable for acoustic jazz

  • Luscious underwash and great stick definition

  • Vibrant, moving crash sound when needed

  • Gorgeous purple patina with iridescent look

  • Subdued, woody, soft sound with a sophisticated character

  • Breathes well with a beautiful wash, while remaining articulate

  • Records nicely with a smooth, aged sound

CONS

  • Overpriced, paying for the Kerope brand

  • Darkish ride with a dull crash sound

  • Too much wash for some users

  • Slow crash wash opening, limits setup flexibility

  • Bell lacks projection, not ideal for riding

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zildjian 20" Kerope.

Features and functionality

  • The 20" Kerope has a weight around 2200g and is praised for its nice wash, but loses stick definition at higher volumes.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's often used as a left-side crash due to how quickly it opens up with increased volume.

    Source
  • The Kerope 19" crash is favored for styles like RNB, hip hop, and neo music, appreciated for its versatility in quiet gigs or home play.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users prefer the buttery, simmering sound of K Cons over the Kerope, indicating a tonal preference for different playing styles.

    Source
  • The Paragon Ride was mentioned as a favorite due to its lasting appeal, despite its initial high cost, suggesting it could be an alternative to the Kerope.

    Source
  • The Kerope's crash sound is highly praised, with some owners preferring it over other rides, highlighting its dark complexity and suitability for lighter touch play.

    Source
  • Dream "Vintage Bliss" 18" crash/ride offers a similar tone to Kerope but with slightly more volume and clarity, making it a cost-effective counterpart.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • There are claims of limited availability and price gouging on Kerope rides, with some buyers considering alternatives like Paiste or Istanbul due to these issues.

    Source
  • Canadian buyers find Sabian cymbals significantly cheaper, making them an appealing option compared to the expensive Kerope, especially for those seeking cost-effective alternatives.

    Source
  • The high cost of the Kerope Ride, priced around $1000, was highlighted, emphasizing its premium status and potential budget considerations for buyers.

    Source
  • A Kerope crash at 1550g is considered unusual for an 18" model, suggesting potential variances in availability or pricing for specific weights.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the Kerope for quieter gigs, citing its ability to complement softer musical settings.

    Source
  • An owner expressed satisfaction with the Paragon Ride, indicating its potential longevity in a player's collection, even after decades of use.

    Source
  • Owners find the Kerope excels in quieter settings but note its bell may lack volume compared to other rides like the K Custom or Dream "Vintage Bliss."

    Source
  • A Kerope owner noted that the 2186g model provides an exceptional wash and crash but lacks a pronounced ping, especially in the bell area.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dan Pawlovich uses Zildjian 20" Kerope

Dan Pawlovich

Drummer

Panic! at the Disco

...
Verified via Zildjian

The information of the cymbals he uses is on the site.

See how Glenn Kotche uses Zildjian 20" Kerope

Glenn Kotche

Drummer

Wilco

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video glenn can be seen using the Kerope Ride

See how Steve White uses Zildjian 20" Kerope

Steve White

Drummer

The Style Council

...
Verified via Whiteydrums

Steve White uses the Zildjian 20" Kerope ride cymbal, as detailed on his official equipment page at Whiteydrums. Additional insights into his use of Kerope cymbals are available on Zildjian's artist page and Musker Beats, highlighting his preference for this specific cymbal in his drumming setup.

Album Usage

The Zildjian 20" Kerope has been featured on the following albums:

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 Zildjian 20" Kerope, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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    waz1966

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