What makes cymbals sound different?
Profile The degree of curvature from the cup to the edge. The profile or “bow” of a cymbal affects its pitch and overtones. Higher profile cymbals will be higher in pitch and have fewer overtones. Flatter design cymbals will be lower in pitch and have more overtones. Taper The degree to which the cymbal changes in thickness from the cup to the edge. The design of the taper will contribute to the amount of Crash-like or Ride-like qualities in the cymbal. Medium-Thin Rides have the most extreme taper being thick at the cup and thin at the edge. Bell All other factors being equal, the bell or cup size determines the amount of overtones or ring projected by a cymbal. A larger bell produces more overtones and a longer full-bodied sound. A smaller bell reduces ring and sustain and provides a more defined stick sound for riding. Ride Area The center portion of the cymbal. This area doesn’t open up immediately when struck, making it effective for pronounced stick tones and patterns. Crash Area
