Best Ride Cymbals for Symphonic Metal in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best ride cymbals for symphonic metal drumming. Expert recommendations on projecting, dynamically controlled rides for cutting through full orchestral arrangements, featuring the exact rides used by Daray, Hellhammer, and Frost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ride cymbal does Daray use?
Daray of Dimmu Borgir and Vader rides a 22" Paiste RUDE Power Ride, built to compete against full symphonic orchestral arrangements layered on top of relentless blast beats.
What ride cymbal does Hellhammer use?
Hellhammer rides a 20" Paiste RUDE Ride, the same raw, unlathed cymbal voice he's used since the late 1980s across both Mayhem's foundational black metal and Dimmu Borgir's own symphonic era.
What ride cymbal does Frost of Satyricon use?
Frost rides a 22" Zildjian A Series Ride, giving him bright, articulate cutting power for his hyperspeed, technically precise blast beats.
What size ride cymbal is best for symphonic metal?
20"-22" is the symphonic metal range. Hellhammer's 20" RUDE Ride responds a touch faster, while Daray's and Frost's 22" rides carry slightly more low-end body for cutting through a full orchestra.
What's the best budget ride cymbal for symphonic metal?
The Meinl HCS Ride (€50-70) is the most accessible true-budget option, delivering a genuinely usable ride sound for developing symphonic metal drummers without the premium bronze price tag.