Dream Cymbals Contact Series Small Bell Flat Ride 24"

24 inch contact ride, B23 bronze (more tin supposedly makes it brighter, very believable), thin traditional lathing, kinda dull plain finish, pretty thin, hand hammered with deliberate patterns (ie small hammer pattern on the edge). Almost flat; half bell (small bell).

This ride has a very bright stick sound, with a big low wash underneath. Since I've gotten it it's actually mellowed out a bit (meaning the overtones; the stick sound may have gotten a bit clearer actually). The stick sound is pretty high pitch, and ALWAYS stays above the wash. Very defined. It's very controllable, something you might not expect from such a big ride. The crash is relatively short, and I use it all the time. Lots of different sounds in different places, which I like. It's different than any other manufacturer, and I really like it. Not crunchy like Paiste, nor 'zingy' like Zildjians, more old school with a big splash of chinese dragon roar.

I 'crush ride' it, or use it as a crash, however you want to say it. comes with a 1 year warranty. Played 2 shows and done 5 practices. No metal/douche bag hitting on it, I feel like I could break any cymbal whose sound I like, but it feels quite durable, and flexible.

customer support was great for purchasing purposes

I'm in 3 bands and have been playing out for many years. Own a Mapex Pro M that I keep well tuned, also Paiste 2002 cymbals (totally different sound), and have played lots of zils and sabians...

I'd rebuy this cymbal. I LOVE the uniqueness, and the different sounds I can get from it. I love the flattish shape. I guess the bland look is the only non positive (hard to put it up as a negative).