This review dives deep into the Meinl Byzance cymbal line, offering a drummer's perspective on their sound and performance. We explore several key cymbals from the Byzance series, showcasing their versatility and expressive capabilities in a real-world playing context. From powerful crashes that cut through any mix to subtle splashes that add textural complexity, we examine how these cymbals contribute to a dynamic and nuanced sonic landscape.This in-depth look covers a range of cymbal sizes and types, highlighting their individual strengths and how they interact when used together. We assess the response, projection, and overall feel of each cymbal, providing valuable insights for drummers considering an investment in the Meinl Byzance line. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner, this review offers a comprehensive understanding of the quality, durability, and expressive potential these cymbals offer.
Pros And Cons
- Reviewer loves it
- Says what it needs to say and gets out of the way
- Brings movement
- Amazing bell sounds
- Suitable for various genres (jazz, rock, etc.)
- Go-to cymbal for the reviewer
- Amazing sound
- Amazing look
- Handmade in Japan
- Sets itself apart from other drum sets
- Toms speak well
- Drums have expression, voice, and personality
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The 22" Big Apple Dark Ride: A Jazz, Rock, and Beyond Workhorse
The Meinl Byzance 22" Big Apple Dark Ride is a versatile cymbal that truly shines. Its rich, dark sound cuts through the mix beautifully, making it perfect for a variety of genres, from jazz to rock. The bell adds a unique sonic dimension, further enhancing its expressiveness. Its response is swift and controlled, ideal for both subtle nuances and powerful accents.
I found the Big Apple Dark Ride to be incredibly expressive, capturing the dynamic range of my playing effortlessly. The controlled response allows for nuanced playing while delivering a strong projection suitable for live performance. Its unique soundscape is truly remarkable.
Byzance 18" Dual Crash: Powerful and Precise
The Meinl Byzance 18" Dual Crash is another standout in the Byzance line. It delivers a powerful crash with exceptional clarity and precision. It's the perfect cymbal for adding impactful accents and dramatic fills without overpowering the mix.
This cymbal projects wonderfully, cutting through even the densest mixes. The dual crash characteristic gives it a full, rich sound that doesn’t get lost; it’s powerful but still very controlled and allows for a varied expression.
Byzance Stacked Splashes and Crashes: Textural Variety
This setup demonstrates the power of layering cymbals for textural variety. The 10" Byzance Dual Splash offers a bright, articulate sound, while the 18" Byzance Trash Crash adds a darker, more aggressive edge. Used together, they create a complex and engaging sonic landscape.
The stacked splash adds a nice dynamic accent to the overall texture, the Byzance Trash Crash added a darker, more powerful element to the sound. This setup shows how small details can make a big difference in a sonic landscape.
Meinl Byzance Hi-Hats and Splashes: Completing the Setup
The Meinl Byzance 14" Extra Dry Medium High Hats provide a crisp and articulate foundation for the drum kit. Their responsiveness and clear articulation are perfect for various playing styles. The 10" Trash Splash adds bright accents.
The additional splashes offer bright punctuation points to the overall sound. The hi-hats are a cornerstone of any setup, creating a foundation for the drums and overall song.
Overall Impression and Conclusion
The Meinl Byzance cymbals used in this video consistently demonstrated exceptional quality, versatility, and expressive capabilities. Each cymbal possesses a unique voice, contributing to the overall musicality of the kit.
From the powerful crashes to the subtle splashes, the Byzance line offers a wide range of sounds and textures. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginning drummer, these cymbals are a worthy investment for their dynamic range, quality and durability. They’re a fantastic addition to any drummer’s arsenal.
