Meinl are introducing a new addition to their cymbal catalog: the Byzance Vintage C2 Ride.
The C2 (C stands for ‘Squared’) ride was designed in collaboration with Meinl Cymbals artist Chris Coleman, and is supposed to blend the elements that Chris needed from multiple ride cymbals into a versatile 21” ride cymbal. Starting with a heavy blank, the bow is worked into to a high profile. This combination of weight and shape is to work together to accentuate the desired stick articulation and presence. The holes around the edge are an uncommon feature found on ride cymbals, but they were added to control the wash and sustain that larger cymbals generate and to further augment the definition Chris desired to stand out in the mix. While the bell is loud enough to cut through any band, the hand-hammering gives it a warm and earthy tonality for a more musical punch.
We must admit that the overall look of this cymbal with its raw, unlathed surface and holes combined with its sound and the great musicianship and personality of the Artist does make it a product which could make its presence known in the market. Time will tell whether that is the case.
Specs:
- Producer: Meinl Cymbals
- Cymbal Type: Ride
- Model: Byzance Vintage C Squared Ride
- Size: 21″
- Weight: Heavy
- Alloy: B20 bronze
- Finish: Raw
- Hand hammered
- Holes around the edge to control wash and sustain
Chris Coleman comments: “I wanted something I could use for a lot of things so I don’t have to carry multiple ride cymbals with me every time I play. I can cover a lot of ground with this ride, and it just does everything I need it to do and sits well in the mix too.”