Best Ride Cymbals for Power Metal in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best ride cymbals for power metal drumming. Expert recommendations on bright, clean ping for galloping patterns and sustained double-bass tempos, featuring the exact rides used by Scott Travis, Aquiles Priester, Nicko McBrain, and Mikkey Dee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ride cymbal does Scott Travis use?
Scott Travis of Judas Priest currently rides a 22" Paiste RUDE Power Ride, part of a Paiste cymbal endorsement dating back to 1987 — three years before "Painkiller" (1990), the record that became a blueprint for European power metal.
What ride cymbal does Aquiles Priester use?
Aquiles Priester of Angra rides a 22" ride from his custom red-coated Paiste cymbal set, chosen for its consistency at the sustained 180-220+ BPM double-bass patterns his neoclassical style demands.
What size ride cymbal is best for power metal?
22" is the power metal standard, used by Scott Travis, Aquiles Priester, Nicko McBrain, and Mikkey Dee alike for the low-end body theatrical arrangements need.
Paiste RUDE vs Custom Red-Coated — which is better for power metal?
Both work at the highest level. Scott Travis's Paiste RUDE Power Ride is raw and cutting, part of a Paiste endorsement dating back to 1987. Aquiles Priester's custom red-coated Paiste ride is bright and direct, built for sustained neoclassical double-bass consistency. Choose based on whether you want the classic RUDE attack or a distinctive custom finish.
What's the best budget ride cymbal for power metal?
The Sabian SBr Ride (€60-90) delivers the same bright-cutting DNA as the HHX Groove Ride at a true beginner price. For a step up, the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride (€130-160) brings B20 bronze to a mid-range price.