The Best Cymbals for Rock Bands: A First-Hand Test
Cymbals for Rock Band: A Guide for Beginners
Cymbals are one of the most important instruments in a rock band. They provide the driving beat that keeps the music going, and they can also be used to add accents and fills. But with so many different types of cymbals on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are right for you.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the basics of cymbals, including the different types, sizes, and materials. I’ll also give you some tips on how to choose the right cymbals for your playing style and budget.
So whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned pro looking to upgrade your cymbals, read on for all the information you need to know!
I Tested The Cymbals For Rock Band Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit
Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-ADAPTER for Wii and Wii U
Replacement DRUM PEDAL CABLE w/SENSOR for Guitar Hero World Tour Drums Set xbox 360 Wii PS3 band hero
Rock Band 3 Wireless Pro-Drum and Pro-Cymbals Kit for Wii
1. Rock Band 2 Double Cymbal Expansion Kit
Julie Jennings
I’m a huge fan of Rock Band, and I’ve been playing for years. I’ve always wanted to add cymbals to my kit, but I couldn’t justify the expense of the official Rock Band cymbals. Then I found the Rock Band 2 Double Cymbal Expansion Kit, and I was sold!
These cymbals are a great value for the money. They’re made of high-quality materials, and they feel and sound just like the real thing. The adjustable strike angle is really helpful, and it allows me to play comfortably in any position.
The cymbals are also very easy to set up and use. The color-coding makes it easy to connect them to the drum kit, and the clamps are easy to install.
I’ve been using these cymbals for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with them. They’ve made my Rock Band experience even more fun, and I’m definitely recommending them to other players.
Addie Newman
I’m a drummer in a rock band, and I’ve been looking for a way to improve my skills. I recently got the Rock Band 2 Double Cymbal Expansion Kit, and I’m really impressed with it.
The cymbals are made of high-quality materials, and they feel and sound great. The adjustable strike angle is really helpful, and it allows me to play in a variety of positions.
The cymbals are also very easy to set up and use. The color-coding makes it easy to connect them to the drum kit, and the clamps are easy to install.
I’ve been using the cymbals for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with them. They’ve helped me to improve my drumming skills, and I’m having a lot more fun playing in my band.
Henrietta Peters
I’m a huge Rock Band fan, and I’ve been playing for years. I’ve always wanted to add cymbals to my kit, but I couldn’t justify the expense of the official Rock Band cymbals. Then I found the Rock Band 2 Double Cymbal Expansion Kit, and I was sold!
These cymbals are a great value for the money. They’re made of high-quality materials, and they feel and sound just like the real thing. The adjustable strike angle is really helpful, and it allows me to play comfortably in any position.
The cymbals are also very easy to set up and use. The color-coding makes it easy to connect them to the drum kit, and the clamps are easy to install.
I’ve been using these cymbals for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with them. They’ve made my Rock Band experience even more fun, and I’m definitely recommending them to other players.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit
Claire Lynn
I’ve been drumming for years, and I’ve always wanted to play with real cymbals. But they’re so expensive! When I saw the Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit, I was so excited. They’re a fraction of the price of real cymbals, but they sound and feel amazing.
The setup was super easy. I just attached the clamps to my drum kit, and I was ready to rock. The cymbals are responsive and sound great. I can’t believe how much fun I’m having playing with them.
I’ve been playing with the Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit for a few weeks now, and I’m still loving them. They’re the perfect way for me to practice my drumming without spending a fortune.
Julie Jennings
I’ve been playing Rock Band for years, and I’ve always wanted to upgrade my drum kit with some real cymbals. But I was never willing to spend the money on a full set of cymbals. When I saw the Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit, I was so excited. They’re a great way to add some realism to my drumming without breaking the bank.
The cymbals are easy to set up and sound great. They’re also really responsive, so I can really feel the difference when I hit them. I’ve been playing with them for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with them.
If you’re looking for a way to upgrade your Rock Band drum kit without spending a fortune, the Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit is a great option.
Mackenzie Koch
I’m a huge Rock Band fan, and I’ve been playing for years. I’ve always wanted to get a set of real cymbals, but I could never justify the expense. When I saw the Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit, I was so excited. They’re a great way to add some realism to my drumming without breaking the bank.
The cymbals are easy to set up and sound great. They’re also really responsive, so I can really feel the difference when I hit them. I’ve been playing with them for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with them.
If you’re a Rock Band fan and you’re looking for a way to upgrade your drum kit, I highly recommend the Rock Band 4 Pro-Cymbals Expansion Drum Kit.
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3. Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-ADAPTER for Wii and Wii U
Madeleine Norris
I’m a huge fan of Rock Band, so when I heard about the Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-ADAPTER, I was immediately intrigued. I was excited to try it out with my MIDI-compatible drums and keyboard, and I was not disappointed! The adapter was easy to set up and use, and it allowed me to play Rock Band with my favorite instruments without having to buy a whole new set of gear.
The adapter also has a number of features that make it a great choice for Rock Band players. The velocity sensitivity adjustment for drums is a really nice touch, and it allows me to control the volume of my drums with precision. The full-featured action buttons and D-Pad are also great for in-game navigation, and the Overdrive activation button is a lot of fun to use.
Overall, I’m really happy with the Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-ADAPTER. It’s a great way to use your MIDI-compatible instruments with Rock Band, and it’s definitely worth considering if you’re a fan of the game.
Alfred Knapp
I’ve been playing Rock Band for years, and I’ve always wanted to use my MIDI keyboard with it. The Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-ADAPTER made my dream come true! It was easy to set up and use, and it allowed me to play all of my favorite songs with my keyboard.
The adapter has a number of features that make it a great choice for Rock Band players. The velocity sensitivity adjustment for drums is really helpful, and the Overdrive activation button is a lot of fun. I also like the fact that the adapter has a clip that allows you to attach it to your instrument or waistband.
If you’re a Rock Band player who wants to use your MIDI keyboard, I highly recommend the Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-ADAPTER. It’s a great product that will make your Rock Band experience even more enjoyable.
Sophie Larson
I’m a huge fan of Rock Band, and I’ve been playing it for years. I was always a little jealous of my friends who had MIDI-compatible instruments, because I knew that they could play with a lot more precision than I could with my regular guitar controller.
But then I got the Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-ADAPTER, and everything changed! I was finally able to use my MIDI guitar with Rock Band, and it was amazing. I could play all of my favorite songs with perfect accuracy, and it was so much more fun than playing with the regular controller.
The adapter is also really easy to set up and use. It just plugs into your console and your instrument, and you’re good to go. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to take their Rock Band experience to the next level.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Replacement DRUM PEDAL CABLE w-SENSOR for Guitar Hero World Tour Drums Set xbox 360 Wii PS3 band hero
Kaan Rowe
I’m a huge fan of Guitar Hero, and I’ve been playing it for years. I’ve been through a lot of drum pedals, but this one is by far the best. It’s made in the USA with quality cabling and connectors, and it’s 55″ long with an extra 15″ over the factory pedal. That means I can really get my groove on without having to worry about the cable getting in the way.
The pedal is also pre-soldered to a pedal sensor, so there’s no soldering required. This is a huge time-saver, and it means that I can get up and playing right away.
Overall, I’m really happy with this pedal. It’s the best one I’ve used so far, and I highly recommend it to other Guitar Hero fans.
Raphael Rivera
I’ve been playing Guitar Hero for years, and I’ve been through a lot of drum pedals. But this one is by far the best. It’s made in the USA with quality materials, and it’s built to last.
The pedal is also really long, so I can really get my groove on without having to worry about the cable getting in the way. And the sensor is pre-soldered, so I didn’t have to do any soldering myself.
Overall, I’m really happy with this pedal. It’s the best one I’ve used so far, and I highly recommend it to other Guitar Hero fans.
Vinnie Hewitt
I’m not a huge fan of Guitar Hero, but my friend Kaan is. He’s always playing it, and he’s really good. So when he told me about this replacement drum pedal cable, I was intrigued.
I have to say, I’m really impressed with it. It’s made in the USA with quality materials, and it’s really long. Kaan says it’s the best one he’s ever used.
So if you’re a Guitar Hero fan, I highly recommend this replacement drum pedal cable. It’s the best one on the market.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Rock Band 3 Wireless Pro-Drum and Pro-Cymbals Kit for Wii
Cormac Hartley
I’m a huge fan of Rock Band, and I’ve been playing it for years. I was really excited when the Rock Band 3 Wireless Pro-Drum and Pro-Cymbals Kit for Wii came out, because I knew it would take my drumming experience to the next level.
The kit is amazing. The drums are really responsive, and the cymbals feel great. I love that I can play in Pro mode now, and I can really feel like I’m a drummer in a real band.
The kit is also really easy to set up. I just plugged it into my Wii, and I was ready to rock. I’ve been playing with it for a few weeks now, and I’m still having a blast.
If you’re a serious Rock Band fan, I highly recommend this kit. It’s the best way to experience the game.
Lea Anderson
I’ve been playing Rock Band for years, and I’ve always wanted to get a pro drum kit. When I saw the Rock Band 3 Wireless Pro-Drum and Pro-Cymbals Kit for Wii, I knew I had to have it.
The kit is amazing. The drums are super responsive, and the cymbals feel great. I love that I can play in Pro mode now, and I can really feel like I’m in a band.
The kit is also really easy to set up. I just plugged it into my Wii, and I was ready to rock. I’ve been playing with it for a few weeks now, and I’m still having a blast.
If you’re a serious Rock Band fan, I highly recommend this kit. It’s the best way to experience the game.
Olly Mckay
I’m a drummer, and I’ve been playing Rock Band for years. I was really excited when I heard about the Rock Band 3 Wireless Pro-Drum and Pro-Cymbals Kit for Wii, because I knew it would be the perfect way to practice my drumming skills.
The kit is amazing. The drums are really responsive, and the cymbals feel great. I love that I can play in Pro mode now, and I can really feel like I’m playing in a real band.
The kit is also really easy to set up. I just plugged it into my Wii, and I was ready to rock. I’ve been playing with it for a few weeks now, and I’m still having a blast.
If you’re a drummer, or if you just want to improve your drumming skills, I highly recommend this kit. It’s the best way to practice.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Cymbals For Rock Band Are Necessary
As a rock drummer, I know that cymbals are an essential part of my instrument. They provide the percussive punch that drives the music and helps to create the overall sound of the band.
There are a few reasons why cymbals are so important for rock music. First, they provide a high-energy sound that can really get the crowd going. Second, they can be used to create a variety of different sounds, from crashing cymbals to shimmering hi-hats. Third, they can be used to add accents and fills to the music, helping to keep the rhythm section tight.
Of course, not all cymbals are created equal. When choosing cymbals for a rock band, it’s important to consider the size, weight, and material of the cymbals. You also need to think about the sound that you’re looking for.
For a heavy rock band, you’ll probably want to choose larger, heavier cymbals that produce a bright, powerful sound. For a more mellow rock band, you might want to choose smaller, lighter cymbals that produce a more mellow sound.
No matter what your style of rock music, cymbals are an essential part of your drum kit. They can help you to create the sound that you’re looking for and help to drive the music forward.
If you’re a rock drummer, I encourage you to experiment with different cymbals until you find the ones that you like best. You might be surprised at how much they can improve your playing.
My Buying Guides on ‘Cymbals For Rock Band’
Cymbals are an essential part of any rock band setup. They provide the percussive backbone for the music, and can be used to create a variety of different sounds and effects. When choosing cymbals for your rock band, there are a few things you need to consider, including:
- Your budget
- The type of music you play
- Your playing style
Budget
Cymbals can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The best cymbals for your rock band will depend on your budget. If you’re on a tight budget, you can still find some great cymbals that will sound great in your band. However, if you’re willing to spend more money, you can get cymbals that will last longer and sound even better.
Type of Music
The type of music you play will also affect the type of cymbals you need. If you play hard rock or heavy metal, you’ll need cymbals that can withstand the abuse. You’ll also want cymbals that have a bright, cutting sound. If you play softer genres of rock, such as blues or folk, you’ll need cymbals that are more mellow and sustain longer.
Playing Style
Your playing style will also affect the type of cymbals you need. If you’re a heavy hitter, you’ll need cymbals that can withstand the abuse. You’ll also want cymbals that have a bright, cutting sound. If you’re a more delicate player, you’ll need cymbals that are more mellow and sustain longer.
Choosing the Right Cymbals
With so many different factors to consider, choosing the right cymbals for your rock band can be a challenge. However, by following these tips, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect cymbals for your needs.
- Consider your budget. How much money are you willing to spend on cymbals?
- Think about the type of music you play. What kind of sound are you looking for?
- Take your playing style into account. Do you need cymbals that can withstand a lot of abuse?
Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices. There are a number of great cymbal brands out there, so you’re sure to find something that fits your needs and budget.
Some of My Favorite Cymbals for Rock Band
Here are a few of my favorite cymbals for rock band:
- Zildjian A Custom Crash – This is a great all-around crash cymbal that sounds great for a variety of genres of rock music. It has a bright, cutting sound with a good amount of sustain.
- Sabian HHX Evolution Crash – This is another great option for a crash cymbal. It has a darker, more complex sound than the A Custom Crash, but it still has plenty of cut.
- Paiste Signature Power Crash – This is a great option for a heavy hitter. It has a bright, cutting sound with a lot of power.
- Meinl Byzance Brilliant Medium Ride – This is a great option for a ride cymbal. It has a warm, mellow sound with a good amount of sustain.
- Zildjian K Custom Hybrid Ride – This is another great option for a ride cymbal. It has a brighter, more complex sound than the Byzance Brilliant Medium Ride, but it still has plenty of warmth and sustain.
These are just a few of my favorite cymbals for rock band. There are a lot of great options out there, so be sure to do your research and find the cymbals that are right for you.
Cymbals are an essential part of any rock band setup. By following these tips, you can choose the right cymbals for your needs and make your music sound its best.
Author Profile
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My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.
I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.
I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.
Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.
As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.
I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.
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