Today’s cymbals are almost exclusively made of bronze: an alloy of copper and tin with trace amounts of silver, nickel, and other metals added to improve durability and tone. The ratio of copper to tin plays a dramatic role in the sound and feedback of a cymbal. The following is the current mainstream cymbal recipe that everyone often sees. Generally speaking, the less tin the cymbals have, the brighter and more focused their sound will be.

B8 bronze (8% tin content) - also known as 2002 bronze. The characteristics of B8 cymbals are bright, sharp and pure overtones, which makes them the best choice for stage scenes.

B10 bronze (tin content 10%) - Meinl's two classic customized product lines are now locked on B10 bronze. The volume output and clarity of sound quality are its characteristics. The cymbal cap part is warmer and has High dynamic range.

B12 Bronze (12% Tin) - Shining, pure and bright in tone, B12 Bronze balances volume output and control, warmth and sharpness. This alloy is very similar to the iconic bronze used in Paiste’s signature series.

B20 bronze (tin content 20%) - also known as bell bronze. This centuries-old alloy is usually reserved for the top lines of cymbals. It is known for its darkness, complexity, diversity and medieval Turkish heritage.

Brass – Traditionally this has been the basis of many low budget cost cymbals. Brass returns again this year, seen in the Ankh series of the A&F brand. Brass produces a softer attack and lower volume output than bronze varieties, which is suitable for less dynamic applications (quiet stages, practicing at home).