Best Cymbals for Symphonic Metal 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Best cymbal picks for symphonic metal. What Daray (Paiste RUDE), Hellhammer (Paiste RUDE), and Frost (Zildjian A Series) actually use — from budget to pro, built to cut through full orchestral arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cymbals does Daray from Dimmu Borgir use?
Daray plays Paiste RUDE and 2002 Series cymbals, 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 cymbals does Hellhammer use?
Hellhammer plays Paiste RUDE hi-hats and 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 cymbals does Frost from Satyricon use?
Frost plays Zildjian A Series cymbals, giving him bright, articulate cutting power for his hyperspeed, technically precise blast beats across Satyricon and 1349.
Why do symphonic metal drummers need different cymbals than pure black or death metal drummers?
Symphonic metal cymbal 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 cymbals to play symphonic metal?
No. The Zildjian ZBT Series 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.