Best Crash Cymbals for Symphonic Metal in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best crash cymbals for symphonic metal drumming. Expert recommendations on powerful, cutting crashes that project through full orchestral arrangements, featuring the exact crashes played by Daray, Hellhammer, and Frost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What crash cymbal does Daray from Dimmu Borgir use?
Daray plays 18" and 19" Paiste RUDE Crashes alongside 2002 Series crashes, chosen for maximum projection against Dimmu Borgir's full-orchestra symphonic black metal arrangements — a setup established during the band's Abrahadabra era (2010) and unchanged through Grand Serpent Rising (2026).
What crash cymbal does Hellhammer use?
Hellhammer plays 18" and 19" Paiste RUDE Crashes paired with his 20" RUDE Ride, a combination proven across both Mayhem's raw black metal and Dimmu Borgir's own symphonic black metal era.
What crash cymbal does Frost from Satyricon use?
Frost plays an 18" Zildjian A Series Crash as part of his broader Zildjian A Series setup, giving him bright, articulate cutting power for his hyperspeed, technically precise blast beats across Satyricon and 1349.
Why do symphonic metal drummers need different crash cymbals than pure black or death metal drummers?
Symphonic metal crash work must cut through full orchestral, choir, and keyboard arrangements while still surviving extreme metal's blast-beat tempos. That requires both the projection and durability for sustained extreme tempos and the dynamic sensitivity to pull back and support orchestral passages without overwhelming them.
Do I need expensive custom crash cymbals to play symphonic metal?
No. The Zildjian ZBT Crash offers a budget entry point into the brighter, more articulate A Series family sound that Frost relies on professionally, giving developing symphonic metal drummers a genuine entry point before upgrading to premium lines.