Best Crash Cymbals for Metalcore in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best crash cymbals for metalcore drumming. Expert recommendations on fast-decay accent crashes for breakdowns and syncopated riffing, featuring the exact crashes used by Matt Greiner, Alex Bent, Jay Weinberg, and Chris Adler.
Frequently Asked Questions
What crash cymbal does Matt Greiner use?
Matt Greiner of August Burns Red runs 18" and 19" Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Medium Crashes, chosen for the controlled, low-sustain voice that stays articulate through breakdown-heavy arrangements and complex time signature changes.
What crash cymbal does Chris Adler use?
Chris Adler of Lamb of God plays 18" and 19" Meinl Byzance Dark Crashes, tuned for groove metal's tightly arranged breakdowns — a dark, complex B20 tone with controlled decay.
What crash cymbal does Jay Weinberg use?
Jay Weinberg of Slipknot runs 18" and 19" Zildjian A Custom Crashes, a brighter, more explosive voice that matches Slipknot's aggressive nu-metal/metalcore hybrid sound.
Should I choose a dry or bright crash for metalcore?
It depends on your style. Dry, controlled crashes like Matt Greiner's and Chris Adler's Meinl Byzance Extra Dry/Dark suit breakdown-heavy, technical metalcore. Brighter crashes like Alex Bent's Byzance Brilliant and Jay Weinberg's Zildjian A Custom suit melodic or aggressive, theatrical metalcore.
What's the best budget crash cymbal for metalcore?
The Zildjian ZBT Crash (€70-95) delivers a genuinely explosive B8 bronze sound at a true beginner price, in the same brand lineage as Jay Weinberg's setup. The Sabian XSR Fast Crash (€100-130) brings B20 bronze — usually reserved for pro cymbals — to a mid-range price.