Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal Review: The Definitive Guide for Drummers
As drummers, we all know the frustration of an inadequate ride cymbal. That crucial piece of bronze that defines our groove, provides punctuation, and elevates our sound. Perhaps you’ve experienced the lifeless “bonk” of a lower-tier ride, its bell lacking clarity, its wash devoid of character, leaving your playing feeling flat and uninspired. We’ve certainly been there, searching for that elusive “ting” or a shimmering sustain that truly cuts through the mix without overwhelming it. The consequences of settling for less are profound: your rhythms lack dimension, your dynamics are stifled, and your overall musical expression suffers. It’s not just about hitting something that makes noise; it’s about finding an instrument that becomes an extension of your musical voice. The right ride cymbal can transform your entire kit, offering versatility across genres and a clarity that keeps you coming back for more, while the wrong one can hold you back for years. That’s why we’re diving deep into the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal, a perennial favorite that promises to solve these very dilemmas.
- One of the world's most popular ride cymbals
- The ride cymbal choice for a veritable "Who's who" of world-class drummers
Before You Invest: What to Consider When Buying a Ride Cymbal
A ride cymbal is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for drummers seeking to add texture, rhythmic definition, and dynamic range to their playing. It solves the problem of an overly simplistic or muddy sound, allowing for intricate patterns, clear accents, and a sustained wash that can beautifully underpin a musical passage. The main benefits include enhanced musicality, improved versatility across genres, and a more professional, nuanced sound overall.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing limitations with their current ride cymbal, perhaps a beginner looking to upgrade from a basic crash/ride, or an intermediate to professional drummer seeking a versatile, high-quality instrument capable of performing across rock, pop, jazz, and even hip-hop. This cymbal is for those who value excellent stick definition, a clear bell, and a crashable edge that doesn’t sacrifice its riding qualities. While it might not be suitable for those who strictly prefer extremely dry, articulate jazz rides with minimal wash, or those on a very tight budget only considering entry-level options, its broad appeal means it fits most drummers’ needs.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: The size of a ride cymbal significantly impacts its sound and how it fits into your drum setup. A larger cymbal, like this 21-inch model, generally offers more wash, sustain, and a broader dynamic range. However, it also demands more physical space on your kit and might feel unwieldy for drummers with smaller setups or those who prefer a more compact feel. Always measure your available space and consider how the cymbal’s diameter will integrate with your existing cymbals and hardware.
- Capacity/Performance: When we talk about a ride cymbal’s “capacity,” we’re really looking at its sonic performance — its ability to deliver a clear “ping,” a defined bell tone, a controlled “wash,” and its “crashability.” High-performance rides excel in these areas, offering a balanced sound that can adapt to various musical demands. Key metrics include the clarity of stick definition (how well each stroke articulates), the projection and sustain of the bell, the richness and spread of the overtones, and how smoothly it transitions into a crash. This particular model is renowned for its excellent stick definition and a bell that cuts through, proving its high performance.
- Materials & Durability: The material of a cymbal is paramount to its sound and longevity. Most professional-grade cymbals, including the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal, are crafted from bronze alloys, typically B20 (80% copper, 20% tin). This alloy is prized for its rich, complex tonal characteristics and exceptional durability. Lesser alloys, like B8, tend to produce brighter, simpler sounds and may be less resilient over time. A quality bronze cymbal, meticulously hammered and lathed, offers superior sound and can withstand years of rigorous playing, maintaining its integrity and acoustic properties.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: While cymbals don’t require “assembly” in the traditional sense, their “ease of use” relates to how forgiving they are to play and how well they respond to different stick types and dynamics. A good ride cymbal should feel responsive and intuitive. Maintenance primarily involves cleaning to preserve its finish and sound. Brilliant finish cymbals, like this Zildjian, require a bit more attention to keep their shimmering appearance, often needing specialized cymbal cleaner to prevent fingerprints and tarnish. Regular cleaning ensures the cymbal continues to look and sound its best, making it a long-term investment.
Understanding these aspects is crucial for making an informed decision, ensuring your new ride cymbal enhances your drumming journey for years to come. With these considerations in mind, we can now turn our attention to the specific merits of the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal.
While the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Complete Guide to the Best Budget Ride Cymbals Under $150: Top Picks & Expert Reviews
- MAJOR UPGRADE FROM "STOCK" STARTER CYMBALS: these are not those distractingly cheap, flimsy prop cymbals that come with most drum sets; Meinl HCS cymbals have impressive sound and sturdy feel geared...
- Redesigned for 2020 the NEW Planet Z range of cymbals are a great introduction for beginners and intermediate players to the Zildjian world of cymbals
- 🎶Designed for Beginners — New type 20 inch practice cymbal is designed for beginner and student, unique to this price range, you are definitely worth to try!
First Impressions: A Glimmering Icon of Versatility
Unboxing the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal is an experience in itself. The initial visual impact is striking: its brilliant finish gleams under any light, instantly conveying a sense of premium craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal. The polished, mirror-like surface is a testament to Zildjian’s attention to detail, making it a stunning centerpiece on any drum kit. We immediately noticed its substantial weight – 2.3 kg – which hints at the rich, full-bodied tones it’s capable of producing. Holding it, the edges feel finely tapered, hinting at its dual nature as both a superb ride and a highly effective crash. It feels robust and expertly crafted, a solid piece of B20 bronze ready for serious playing.
Compared to some entry-level or even mid-range cymbals, the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal exudes a level of professional quality that is palpable. There’s no mistaking its place in the esteemed A Zildjian family. Its presence alone inspires confidence, and we quickly understood why it’s consistently ranked as one of the world’s most popular ride cymbals. The hammering and lathing patterns are precise, contributing not only to its visual beauty but also to its complex sonic characteristics. This isn’t just a piece of metal; it’s a finely tuned musical instrument designed to meet the demands of discerning drummers across virtually every genre. For drummers looking for a cymbal that looks as good as it sounds, this brilliant finish model is a clear winner, promising both aesthetic brilliance and sonic excellence right out of the box. Its reputation precedes it, and our initial assessment confirmed that this cymbal lives up to the hype, presenting a versatile and visually stunning option for any serious player.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional versatility across diverse musical styles.
- Outstanding stick definition with a clear, articulate ping.
- Beautiful, projecting bell sound that cuts through.
- Highly crashable with a shimmering, sustained wash.
- Brilliant finish offers a focused sound and stunning aesthetics.
Drawbacks
- Can be sensitive and wash-heavy if not played with control.
- Its weight requires a sturdy cymbal stand.
A Deep Dive into the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal’s Performance
The Sonic Signature: Bell, Ping, and Wash Mastery
When we first laid sticks on the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal, we immediately understood why it carries such a revered name. The sonic signature is, in a word, exquisite. Starting with the bell, it delivered a clear, bright, and powerful tone that instantly cut through the mix. This wasn’t a meek, understated bell; it possessed a commanding presence, making it ideal for accents or carrying a strong rhythmic motif. One user echoed our sentiment, noting, “Coming from the K 23” to this A 21” brilliant – much better bell.” We found this to be consistently true; the bell truly shines, offering a distinct and musical voice without being overly clangy or abrasive. It’s a bell designed for clarity and projection, perfect for intricate patterns or punctuating phrases.
Moving to the bow, the stick definition is remarkably articulate. Each stroke produces a crisp, mellow “ting” that maintains separation even at higher tempos. We observed a beautiful, light “ting” rather than a harsh “bonk,” a quality highly sought after by drummers looking for clarity without an abundance of overpowering overtones. This aspect was confirmed by a satisfied drummer who stated, “This was the exact sound I was looking for, not a ‘Bonk’ from my previous Zildjian ride but the nice mellow light ‘ting’ I was looking for.” The ping itself isn’t overwhelmingly dry or metallic; it’s balanced with a pleasant, medium overtone spread that adds richness without becoming muddy. The brilliant finish plays a crucial role here, as we’ve found that it contributes to a more focused and controlled sound compared to traditional finishes. This focus helps maintain the definition of the ping while still allowing the cymbal’s inherent warmth to come through. Whether riding quietly for jazz or driving a rock beat, the stick definition remained superb, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal. This balance of clarity and warmth is what truly sets it apart, making it an incredibly versatile instrument for any drummer.
Crashability and Versatility Across Genres
One of the most remarkable features of the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal is its incredible versatility, particularly its crashability. This isn’t just a ride cymbal; it’s a true crash-ride, seamlessly transitioning between defined ride patterns and full-bodied crashes. We discovered that the thin-tapered edge allows for incredibly smooth and effortless crashes, producing a shimmering, explosive sound that sustains beautifully. It doesn’t choke or sound harsh; instead, it opens up with a rich, musical wash that really cuts through. As one user aptly put it, “Phenomenal cymbal if you like a ride that crashes smoothly… New fav ride cymbal, especially for rock.” We wholeheartedly agree; the ability to crash this cymbal without it sounding out of place or overwhelming the mix is a significant advantage, especially in live performance settings where a dedicated crash might not always be within reach or necessary. It serves as a powerful accent cymbal when called upon, adding a layer of dynamic expression that many other rides simply cannot match. This dual functionality means you potentially need fewer cymbals on your stand, streamlining your setup without sacrificing sonic options.
Beyond its impressive crashability, the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal truly lives up to its “all-purpose” designation. We put it through its paces across a spectrum of genres, from jazz and fusion to rock, pop-punk, and even some hip-hop grooves. In rock and pop-punk, its robust wash and clear bell provided the drive and accents needed, as one user confirmed, “The wash is better for rock, pop punk, etc. You could definitely use this as a big crash if you wanted.” For more subtle jazz applications, the delicate stick definition allowed for intricate patterns, while the controlled wash could swell beautifully for dynamic phrasing. The medium overtones ensure it blends seamlessly, providing a colorful backdrop without dominating. A seasoned drummer with 28 years of experience, playing everything from jazz to hip-hop, emphasized, “I’ve found myself to always come back to Zildjian’s A Sweet Ride.” This sentiment encapsulates the cymbal’s ability to adapt and excel in virtually any musical context, making it an indispensable tool for working drummers and hobbyists alike. Its consistent performance across styles truly makes it a staple in any drummer’s arsenal.
Durability, Craftsmanship, and the Zildjian Legacy
The Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal embodies the legendary quality we’ve come to expect from the Avedis Zildjian Company. Crafted in the USA from premium B20 bronze, this cymbal feels like a substantial, professional-grade instrument built to last. We immediately noted its considerable weight – 2.3 kg – which is indicative of its robust construction. This heft contributes to its rich sustain and projection, but it also means you’ll need a sturdy cymbal stand to support it adequately. As one user pointed out, “Its super heavy, and when i put it on the stand it originally toppled over, so be careful in regards to that.” This is a minor consideration for a cymbal of this caliber, emphasizing the need for appropriate hardware rather than a flaw in the cymbal itself. The overall build quality inspires confidence; we found no imperfections in the lathing or hammering, which are crucial for consistent sound and long-term durability. This cymbal is designed to withstand the rigors of consistent playing, whether in the studio or on the road, echoing the trust that countless professional drummers place in the Zildjian brand.
The “A Family” designation itself carries significant weight, representing Zildjian’s foundational and most popular line of cymbals, known for their bright, full-bodied sound and versatility. This heritage is evident in every aspect of the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal. The one-year warranty, while standard, provides additional peace of mind, though frankly, with Zildjian’s reputation, we anticipate this cymbal will far outlast its official warranty period under normal playing conditions. The brilliant finish not only enhances its visual appeal but also, in our experience, contributes to a slightly more focused and controlled overtone series compared to traditional finishes. This refinement means the cymbal cuts through with clarity while still retaining its beautiful warmth. A long-time drummer confirmed this observation, stating, “The brilliant finish one has a more focused, controlled sound than the traditional finished one. The overtones on the traditional finishes A Sweet’s I’ve had always had these really ping-y harsh overtones. But the brilliant finished ones didn’t. Naturally, the brilliant cymbals had better stick definition and bell…” This confirms our own expert assessment: the brilliant finish is more than just aesthetics; it’s an integral part of this cymbal’s refined sonic character and overall premium feel, solidifying its place as a top-tier instrument built on a legacy of excellence.
What Other Users Are Saying
The sentiment surrounding the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal is overwhelmingly positive, with many drummers expressing profound satisfaction. We found that users consistently laud its versatility and exceptional sound qualities. One enthusiastic drummer simply stated, “I know know why this cymbal has been ranked one of, if not the best!” This mirrors our own findings regarding its status as a highly popular choice. Many highlighted the quality of the bell and its “crashability.” For instance, a user praised it for having a “much better bell” and that the “wash is better for rock, pop punk, etc. You could definitely use this as a big crash if you wanted.” Another commented on its smooth crashing ability and “beautiful” bell, proclaiming it their “new fav ride cymbal, especially for rock.” The bright, sustained shimmer was also a common theme, with a less experienced drummer noting, “I love its shimmer, and it sustains forever… if you’re looking for a ride that has a great sounds, this is a winner.” This feedback confirms our expert assessment of its balanced sound profile and adaptability.
While the overwhelming majority of feedback is positive, we did note a few recurring observations that align with our own findings. A user mentioned its sensitivity, saying it “can be sensitive or sound like a crash ride,” which reinforces our point about it being highly crashable and requiring a nuanced touch to control the wash in quieter settings. The weight was also mentioned, with one user noting it’s “super heavy, and when i put it on the stand it originally toppled over, so be careful in regards to that.” This isn’t a flaw but a practical consideration for a robust, professional-grade cymbal, underscoring the need for sturdy hardware. Even drummers who initially preferred other brands were swayed, with one stating, “I personally don’t prefer Zildjian but I did a lot research on what type of sound I was after and this one was constantly mentioned as the sound I was after.” This collective user feedback strongly validates our expert opinion that the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal is a top-tier instrument, highly regarded for its balance of ping, wash, bell, and crash characteristics.
Comparing the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal to its Top Alternatives
1. Zildjian Planet Z Ride Cymbal
- Redesigned for 2020 the NEW Planet Z range of cymbals are a great introduction for beginners and intermediate players to the Zildjian world of cymbals
- Proudly made in the USA crafted from Brass the NEW Planet Z cymabls offer bright cutting tones with more control and a focussed sound
The Zildjian Planet Z Ride Cymbal sits firmly in the entry-level category, designed primarily for beginners or those seeking a very affordable option. Compared to the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal, the Planet Z offers a much simpler, brighter, and less complex sound profile. Its B8 alloy construction means it lacks the rich overtones, nuanced sustain, and sophisticated wash of the B20 bronze A Sweet Ride. While it provides a basic ride function with a defined ping, its bell is typically less articulate and its crashability more rudimentary, often sounding harsher than the smooth, musical crash of the A Sweet. Drummers just starting out or those on an extremely limited budget might find the Planet Z suitable as a first ride, but anyone looking for serious musical expression, versatility, and professional-grade sound will quickly outgrow it. It simply cannot compete with the dynamic range and sonic complexity of the A Sweet Ride, making it a stepping stone rather than a long-term solution.
2. Roland CY-13R 13-Inch Electric Drum Ride Cymbal
- 13" V-Cymbal for Ride
- Enlarged bow area and a natural swing motion enhance the playing feel
The Roland CY-13R 13-Inch Electric Drum Ride Cymbal is an entirely different beast, existing in the realm of electronic percussion. As an electronic V-Cymbal, its purpose is to provide realistic feel and triggering for digital drum kits, not to produce acoustic sound. It features choke capability and separate bow/bell triggering zones, which are essential for silent practice and studio recording with electronic drums. However, it cannot be compared directly to the acoustic Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal in terms of raw acoustic sound, resonance, or the organic feel of vibrating bronze. Who might prefer this alternative? Drummers who primarily play electronic kits, need silent practice options, or integrate electronic sounds into their setup. While the Roland offers excellent digital performance, it simply doesn’t fulfill the same role or provide the same vibrant, acoustic experience as a traditional bronze ride cymbal. It’s a tool for a different purpose, making it a choice based on fundamental setup preference rather than sonic comparison.
3. Zildjian 20″ I Series Ride Cymbal
- Taking its name from Ilham – the Turkish word for inspiration
- Crafted from B8 alloy
The Zildjian 20″ I Series Ride Cymbal represents a solid step up from the Planet Z series, positioning itself as a good intermediate option, but still a tier below the professional-grade A Sweet Ride. Part of Zildjian’s “I Family” (formerly the ZBT series), it uses B8 bronze, which provides a brighter, more cutting sound compared to the richer, more complex B20 alloy of the A Sweet Ride. While the 20″ I Series offers decent stick definition and a clear bell, it generally has a shorter sustain and a less nuanced wash than the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal. Its crashability is respectable for its class, but it won’t have the same smooth, shimmering explosion or versatile overtones as the A Sweet. Drummers looking for a quality upgrade from basic beginner cymbals without jumping straight to professional price points might find the I Series appealing. However, for those seeking the ultimate blend of versatility, a truly musical wash, an authoritative bell, and the ability to seamlessly cross genres with a cymbal that genuinely inspires, the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal remains the superior choice, offering a depth and character that the I Series simply cannot match.
Final Verdict: The Enduring Brilliance of the A Sweet Ride
Having rigorously tested and deeply analyzed the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal, our verdict is clear: this is a truly exceptional instrument that lives up to its legendary status. Its main strengths lie in its unparalleled versatility across musical genres, its articulate stick definition, the stunning clarity and projection of its bell, and its beautifully crashable edge. We found it to be a cymbal that truly adapts to your playing, providing a rich, shimmering wash or a precise, cutting ping as needed. While it demands a sturdy stand due to its weight and may initially feel sensitive for drummers accustomed to drier rides, these are minor considerations overshadowed by its immense sonic benefits.
We wholeheartedly recommend the Zildjian A20079 21″ Brilliant Sweet Ride Cymbal to intermediate to professional drummers seeking an all-purpose ride that can anchor their sound for years to come. Whether you’re playing rock, pop, jazz, or experimenting with fusion, this cymbal will not only meet but exceed your expectations. Its brilliant finish adds visual appeal and a focused sonic character, making it a standout piece in any setup. If you’re ready to elevate your drumming with a ride cymbal that truly inspires and empowers your musical expression, this is an investment you won’t regret. Experience the enduring brilliance and unparalleled versatility for yourself; explore its full features and make it yours today.
Last update on 2026-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API