Meinl Crash Byzance 19" Medium Thin
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Manufacturer Information
Meinl
https://www.ortegaguitars.com
info@ortegaguitars.com
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SAICO SAS
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Historical Context and Positioning in the Range
Designed around the demands of drummer Derek Roddy, the "Serpent" hi-hat was conceived as a performance-oriented model, capable of covering a wide musical spectrum without multiplying cymbals. Its reversible concept positions it as a hi-hat with character, both modern in approach and premium in manufacture thanks to its B20 alloy and artisanal hammering.
Who This Drum/Hi-Hat Is For
This hi-hat is aimed at intermediate to expert drummers seeking a versatile, expressive, and reliable tool in various contexts. It excels in rock and pop thanks to its loud volume and presence, while remaining relevant in the studio for its richness and control. Fans of fusion, funk, reggae, and R&B will appreciate its ability to switch from a precise "chick" to a wide, textured opening depending on the setting and side used.
Features and Innovations
The major strength of the "Serpent" Derek Roddy hi-hat is its fully reversible design: by swapping the top and bottom cymbals (or changing the played side), you get two distinct sonic identities. This approach multiplies possibilities without changing the setup: a sharper response for articulated grooves, or a wider, enveloping opening for powerful passages. The hand hammering enhances the cymbal's individuality and improves the feeling of control, particularly useful when playing loudly while maintaining definition.
The Sound
Made from B20 (a copper-tin alloy known for its musicality), this hi-hat develops a warm timbre while retaining a brightness that allows it to stand out in a dense mix. The sound is described as rich and full-bodied, with a high-mid pitch : the attack remains clear, the projection is direct, and the harmonics extend naturally.
With a loud volume and long sustain, it responds particularly well to accented playing (rock, amplified stages), while offering interesting nuances when working on closing, foot pressure, and gradual openings. Depending on the opening, the cymbal shifts from a solid and precise "chick" to a broader, textured spread, ideal for coloring a chorus or expanding a groove without losing control.
Technical specifications
| Alloy | B20 | Sound | rich, full-bodied |
| Manufacture | hand-hammered | Pitch | high-mid |
| Finish | brilliant | Volume | loud |
| Design | reversible hi-hat with 2 distinct sounds depending on the played side | Sustain | long |
| Timbre | warm | ||
Questions frequently asked
What alloy is used for this hi-hat?
The construction is based on a B20 alloy, with hand hammering and a brilliant finish.
Is the Meinl Crash Byzance 19" Medium Thin suitable for rock?
Its loud volume, medium-high pitch, and long sustain are designed to meet the demands of rock and pop contexts. The projection remains clear in passages played with intensity.
How does the reversible design of the Serpent Derek Roddy hi-hat work?
The reversible design allows the cymbals to be flipped or the playing side changed to achieve two distinct sound characters. One setup favors a sharper response for articulate grooves. The other delivers a wider, more textured openness.
What sound does this B20 model offer?
The announced tone is warm, with a rich and full sound. The B20 alloy maintains a brightness intended to cut through a dense mix.
Is this hi-hat suitable for studio use and funk or reggae styles?
Thanks to its hand hammering and two playable sides, this instrument allows for precise “chick” work or progressive openings. It is presented as suitable for studio use as well as fusion, funk, reggae, and R&B contexts.



