Best Ride Cymbals for Death Metal in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best ride cymbals for death metal drumming. Expert recommendations on controlled, articulate ride bell and ping cymbals that cut through downtuned, blast-heavy mixes, featuring the exact rides used by George Kollias, Flo Mounier, and Gene Hoglan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ride cymbal does George Kollias use?
George Kollias (Nile) rides a 21" Zildjian A Custom Mega Bell Ride, using its oversized bell for the piercing accents that cut through Nile's densely layered technical death metal even while sustaining blast beats past 240 BPM.
What ride cymbal does Flo Mounier use?
Flo Mounier (Cryptopsy) rides a 21" Sabian HHX Raw Bell Dry Ride, valued for its dry, controlled stick definition that stays articulate even at his extreme 270 BPM tempos.
What size ride cymbal is best for death metal?
21"-22" is the death metal standard. George Kollias and Flo Mounier both ride 21" for a slightly quicker response, while Gene Hoglan's 22" AAX Ride leans into a bit more low-end weight.
Do I need a Mega Bell ride for death metal?
Not necessarily. A Mega Bell design like George Kollias's Zildjian A Custom Mega Bell is a genuine upgrade if bell accents are a big part of your playing. If extreme-tempo clarity matters more, Flo Mounier's Sabian Raw Bell Dry Ride is the better fit.
What's the best budget ride cymbal for death metal?
The Zildjian ZBT Ride (€70-90) delivers a genuinely bright, cutting B8 bronze tone with a usable bell at a true beginner price. For a step up, the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride (€130-160) brings B20 bronze to a mid-range price.