Cymbals come in a variety of thickness, sizes, shapes, and styles. Ride cymbals and hi-hats are primarily time keepers. Crashes, splashes, and Chinese cymbals are primarily used for "punctuation."

A basic set of cymbals typically includes a 20" to 22" ride; 16" to 18" crash; and a pair of 13" or 14" hi-hats. There's no right or wrong selection of cymbals - what sounds good to you is what counts.
 

Proper Cymbal Playing Techniques

Give your cymbals "breathing room." Bolting down the wing nut restricts the sound and can cause damage to the cymbals. Replace worn plastic sleeves and felt washers on the cymbal posts to prevent damage to your cymbals.

Avoid extreme angles when positioning your cymbals. Extreme angles not only restricts the movement and diminishes the response of your cymbals, but also puts excess pressure on the bell (cup) and can damage your cymbals.

Avoid direct hits to the edge of the cymbal·this may result in damage, especially to thinner cymbals. Strike cymbals, especially splash, crash, and Chinese models, with quick glancing blows to obtain optimum sound response while minimizing the possibility of damage.

Hi-hats should be loose and slightly tilted. This eliminates air lock and keeps the sound crisp and consistent.

It's Your Kit: All of the above examples are for illustrative purposes. As you learn more about your drums, you'll find that there is no right or wrong way to do anything. What matters is what works best for you! Enjoy·