Meinl 20in Ride Cymbal HCS Traditional Finish Brass - Durable, Musical

Our review of the Meinl 20in Ride Cymbal (HCS Traditional Finish) finds it to be a clear step up from the flimsy "stock" cymbals that ship with many starter kits. Geared toward beginners and developing players, this German-made MS63 brass ride delivers a focused ping and articulate bell while retaining a musical underlying sustain, so drum parts sound like real songs rather than practice kit noise. The result is an affordable, robust ride that improves both tone and playing enjoyment without feeling fragile.

Key Features

• German construction: Made in Meinl's Germany factory, the build quality gives confidence that the cymbal will last through regular practice and gigging.
• MS63 brass alloy: Produces a clean, bright, and crisp tone that reads well in mixed playing and helps stick definition cut through.
• 20in industry standard size: Offers a familiar ride footprint with a penetrating bell and balanced sustain suited to many styles.
• Well-formed grooves and hammer marks: Provide defined sound and prevent thin, clangy overtones common to cheaper models.
• Durable finish and logo treatment: The traditional finish shimmers under lights and includes a laser engraved logo and serial number for a pro look.

Who It's For

This ride is aimed squarely at beginners and intermediate drummers who want a meaningful upgrade from bundled or discount cymbals. It is especially useful for players who need a clear bell and stick articulation for rock, pop, funk, or rehearsal work without spending on professional B20 models.

Players seeking nuanced, professional-level complexity or exotic tonal colors should consider Meinl's higher-end lines, but for anyone on a budget who still wants a musical, long-lasting ride, the HCS 20in is a practical choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear stick definition and an articulate bell that translates well in a band mix.
• Sturdy MS63 brass construction that resists dents and long-term wear compared with typical stock cymbals.
• Attractive traditional finish and pro-style logo that elevate the kit's look.

Cons

• Brass HCS models are brighter and simpler in character than Meinl's professional B20 bronze lines, so they offer less complexity for advanced players.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Meinl HCS 20in ride is a smart buy for beginners and intermediate drummers who want a reliable, musical cymbal that outperforms stock pieces. It pairs an articulate bell and well-defined stick response with durable German construction, making it excellent value for practice, rehearsal, and gigging where budget and longevity matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this ride suitable for live gigging?
Yes; the construction and tone are robust enough for rehearsals and many live situations, especially in small to medium venues.

What styles of music does it work best for?
Its clear bell and medium sustain suit rock, pop, funk, and general practice uses, while still fitting many other styles.

Does it come with a warranty?
The HCS 20in ride is backed by Meinl's 2-year warranty as indicated by the product line.