Looking Beyond the Arborea 5-Piece Low Volume Cymbal? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How each alternative compares

ULUOBO 9-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set

The ULUOBO 9-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set offers a significantly larger configuration than the Arborea. It includes nine cymbals in a black finish, compared to the Arborea’s five-piece gold set. The ULUOBO model weighs 13.7 pounds, which is heavier than the Arborea’s 10.3 pounds. This extra weight may provide a more substantial feel during play. You get a full range of sizes, including smaller 6, 8, and 10-inch options not found in the Arborea pack. The black color provides a distinct aesthetic difference. If you need more cymbals for varied sounds, this set expands your kit. However, the increased size and weight reduce portability. Drummers who prioritize comprehensive coverage over compact storage will find this a better fit. The stainless steel construction remains durable, but the larger footprint requires more space on your drum rack.

Rhythm Bytes 13-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Bundle

The Rhythm Bytes 13-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Bundle provides the most extensive option on this list. It includes thirteen pieces, far exceeding the five cymbals in the Arborea set. This bundle is designed for acoustic drum volume reduction rather than just quiet practice. The golden finish matches the Arborea’s aesthetic, but the sheer volume of components changes the setup entirely. You get a complete dampening kit that covers more surface area. The dimensions are 20 by 20 inches with a height of 2.7 inches, indicating a bulkier package. This set is ideal for drummers who want to mute an entire acoustic kit. It sacrifices the portability and simplicity of the Arborea’s 10.3-pound pack. If you need maximum volume reduction across many cymbals, this bundle delivers. But if you prefer a lighter, easier-to-install set, the Arborea remains the more practical choice for quick setup and removal.

Arborea Viking B10 Bronze 5-Piece Cymbal Pack

The Arborea Viking B10 Bronze 5-Piece Cymbal Pack differs in material and tone. While the original Arborea set uses stainless steel for low volume, this Viking model uses B10 bronze. Bronze offers a brighter, more traditional tonal character compared to the muted sound of the stainless steel pack. It retains the five-piece configuration, so the size and layout are similar. However, it lacks the specific low-volume specifications of the original. The Viking set is not designed for the same level of volume reduction. You get a standard practice set with a bright finish. This option suits drummers who want a realistic cymbal feel and sound without extreme dampening. It is a good bridge for beginners moving from low-volume to traditional cymbals. The lack of weight and size data makes direct comparison difficult, but the material change is the key differentiator. Choose this if tone matters more than silence.

Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set

The Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set is a compact alternative. It includes only three cymbals, a pair of 14-inch hi-hats and one 18-inch crash. This is fewer pieces than the Arborea’s five-piece set. The brass construction provides a different tone and feel compared to the Arborea’s stainless steel. The set weighs 8.6 pounds, making it lighter and more portable than the Arborea’s 10.3-pound pack. The gold finish offers a similar visual appeal. However, it lacks the comprehensive coverage of the Arborea set, missing 16 and 20-inch cymbals. This set is best for beginners who need a small, affordable brass option. It prioritizes tone and portability over volume reduction. If you do not need a full low-volume kit, this compact pack is sufficient. It is a good choice for limited spaces where even the Arborea’s size is too much.

Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass Cymbal Set

The Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass Cymbal Set offers a three-piece configuration in traditional brass. It includes two 14-inch hi-hats and one 18-inch crash, similar to the Zildjian option. The brass material provides a durable construction with a traditional finish. This set weighs 8 pounds, which is lighter than the Arborea’s 10.3-pound stainless steel pack. The compact size makes it easy to store and transport. However, it does not offer the low-volume features of the Arborea set. You get a standard brass tone rather than a muted practice sound. The two-year warranty adds value not explicitly stated for the Arborea. This set is ideal for players who want a compact, durable brass pack for practice or travel. It sacrifices the silence of the Arborea for a more authentic cymbal experience. If you prefer brass and do not need extreme volume reduction, this is a solid, lightweight alternative.

Pearl BRDS Low-Volume 4-Piece Cymbal Set

The Pearl BRDS Low-Volume 4-Piece Cymbal Set focuses on metal feel and portability. It includes four pieces, one fewer than the Arborea’s five-piece set. The set features 14-inch hi-hats and a 20-inch ride, matching some of the Arborea’s sizes but omitting the 16 and 18-inch crashes. The metallic silver finish differs from the Arborea’s gold. It weighs 9.5 pounds, slightly lighter than the Arborea’s 10.3-pound pack. The low-volume design ensures quieter practice, similar to the Arborea. However, the smaller piece count means less coverage. This set is best for drummers who prioritize realistic metal feel and portability. The 14-inch hi-hats provide a standard feel for many players. If you need a full five-piece set, the Arborea is more complete. But if you prefer a lighter, four-piece setup with a focus on hi-hats, the Pearl BRDS is a practical choice. It balances volume reduction with a compact, durable build.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Arborea 5-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set

Best for: Quiet practice in apartments

Piece Count

5

Material

stainless steel

Finish

polished

Volume Level

low volume

Cymbal Type

Low Volume, Practice

Weight

10.3 pounds

View on Amazon: Arborea 5-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set Affiliate link

This Arborea pack includes five low-volume cymbals: two 14-inch hi-hats, a 16-inch crash, an 18-inch crash, and a 20-inch ride. The set weighs 10.3 pounds and is made from stainless steel. It reduces volume by 80% compared to standard cymbals, allowing for longer practice sessions without ear fatigue. The gold high-grade finish adds a polished look. It is designed for beginners and drummers seeking a quiet practice solution.

Pros

• Five-piece configuration with standard 14, 16, 18, and 20-inch sizes
• 80% volume reduction for apartment-friendly practice
• Stainless steel construction for durability
• Polished surface reduces edge noise

Cons

• Heavier build at 10.3 pounds
• Limited color options compared to other brands
• No included mounting hardware

Good fit if

• You need a complete 5-piece set for standard drum kits
• You prioritize quiet practice in shared living spaces
• You want a durable stainless steel construction

Skip if

• You prefer lighter cymbals under 10 pounds
• You require specific mounting hardware included
• You want a wider variety of color finishes

Verdict: Arborea 5-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set offers a complete, quiet practice solution for drummers. It fits beginners who need a durable, standard-sized set for apartment living.

2 Best black

ULUOBO 9-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set

Best for: Drummers needing a full, durable practice set

Piece Count

9

Material

Stainless steel

Volume Level

Low volume

Included Accessories

Cymbal bag, drumsticks

Color

Black

Cymbal Configuration

20" Ride, 16" Crash

View on Amazon: ULUOBO 9-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set Affiliate link

This ULUOBO set offers nine low-volume cymbals in a black finish. It includes a 14-inch hi-hat pair, 16-inch and 18-inch crashes, a 20-inch ride, and three splash cymbals. Made from stainless steel, the set reduces volume by up to 80% while keeping a metal feel. It weighs 13.7 pounds and comes with a carrying bag and drumsticks. This configuration suits drummers needing a comprehensive practice kit.

Pros

• Includes nine pieces for a complete practice setup
• Stainless steel construction ensures durability
• Reduces volume by up to 80% compared to traditional cymbals
• Comes with a free cymbal bag and drumsticks

Cons

• Heavier at 13.7 pounds compared to lighter alloy sets
• Smaller splash cymbals (6/8/10 inch) may not suit all playing styles
• Limited to black color option for this specific nine-piece configuration

Good fit if

• You need a full range of cymbal sizes for practice
• You prefer the durability of stainless steel over alloy
• You want a complete kit with a carrying bag included

Skip if

• You require a lighter set for frequent travel
• You prefer traditional bronze or alloy materials
• You need a silver or gold finish for this piece count

Verdict: ULUOBO 9-Piece Black Low Volume Cymbal Set provides a durable, comprehensive practice kit for drummers who prioritize volume reduction and material longevity over portability weight.

3 Best budget

Rhythm Bytes 13-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Bundle

Best for: Acoustic drum volume reduction

Piece Count

5

Material

Alloy steel

Volume Level

Low volume

Cymbal Type

Low Volume, Practice

Dimensions

20 × 20 × 2.7 inches

View on Amazon: Rhythm Bytes 13-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Bundle Affiliate link

This Rhythm Bytes bundle includes 12 pieces of low volume cymbals and drum silencer pads. The set features 14-inch, 16-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch cymbals made from alloy steel. It also covers snare, toms, and bass drum with mute pads. The package includes a carrying case for transport. You get a complete practice solution that reduces volume while maintaining rebound. This all-in-one kit suits drummers needing a quiet setup for home or studio use.

Pros

• Includes 5-piece low volume cymbal set
• Comes with drum silencer pads for snare and toms
• Alloy steel construction for durability
• Includes carrying case for portability

Cons

• Cymbals are not mesh or rubber pads
• No electronic triggers or connectivity
• Requires physical installation of mute pads

Good fit if

• You need a complete acoustic damping solution
• You want to practice quietly without electronics
• You prefer alloy steel cymbal material

Skip if

• You require electronic drum triggers
• You need mesh cymbal surfaces
• You want wireless connectivity options

Verdict: Rhythm Bytes 13-Pc Low Volume Cymbal Bundle offers a comprehensive acoustic dampening kit. It fits drummers who want to reduce volume while keeping the feel of traditional drums.

4 Best premium

Arborea Viking B10 Bronze 5-Piece Cymbal Pack

Best for: Beginners seeking a standard five-piece B10 bronze set

Piece Count

5

Included Cymbals

14", 16", 18", 20"

Material

B10 bronze alloy

Finish

Viking-5pcs

View on Amazon: Arborea Viking B10 Bronze 5-Piece Cymbal Pack Affiliate link

The Arborea Viking B10 is a five-piece low-volume cymbal pack made from B10 bronze alloy. It includes 14, 16, 18, and 20-inch cymbals. The metal is fully lathed for a bright response and balanced sustain. This set suits beginners or players expanding their kit. It offers a refined sound profile suitable for practice sessions.

Pros

• Constructed from B10 bronze alloy
• Five-piece set includes 14, 16, 18, and 20-inch cymbals
• Fully lathed finish for bright response
• Balanced sustain for clear sound

Cons

• Limited to five pieces in the pack
• No mention of included mounting hardware
• International shipping restrictions apply

Good fit if

• You need a complete five-piece set
• You prefer B10 bronze material
• You want a bright cymbal sound

Skip if

• You require more than five cymbals
• You need included mounting hardware
• You want domestic return options

Verdict: Arborea Viking B10 5-Piece Cymbal Set provides a solid B10 bronze foundation for practice. It fits players seeking a standard five-piece configuration with a bright tonal character.

5 Best gold

Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set

Best for: beginners seeking brass tone

Piece Count

2

Included Cymbals

14" pair, 18"

Material

brass

Finish

Gold

Dimensions

20.9 × 20.1 × 2.36 inches

Weight

8.6 pounds

View on Amazon: Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set Affiliate link

This two-piece brass set includes a 14-inch pair and an 18-inch cymbal. The gold finish and updated hammering provide a bright, focused sound. Weighing 8.6 pounds, it offers a solid feel for developing players. The compact dimensions make it easy to store. It suits those seeking a traditional brass tone in a smaller package.

Pros

• Constructed from durable brass material
• Features a distinct gold finish
• Includes a 14-inch pair and 18-inch cymbal
• Updated hammering pattern for a refreshed sound

Cons

• Only includes two cymbal pieces
• Lacks low-volume or silent capabilities
• Heavier at 8.6 pounds compared to plastic alternatives

Good fit if

• You want a traditional brass sound
• You need a small starter set
• You prefer a gold aesthetic

Skip if

• You require a full five-piece pack
• You need silent practice options
• You want more than two cymbals

Verdict: Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 Brass Cymbal Set is a compact brass option for beginners. It fits players who prioritize tone over volume reduction.

6 Best brass

Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass Cymbal Set

Best for: compact brass cymbal packs

Included Cymbals

14" hihats, 18" crash/ride, 14" crash

Material

Brass

Finish

Traditional finish

Country of Origin

Germany

Warranty

Two-year

Dimensions

18 × 18 × 1 inches

View on Amazon: Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass Cymbal Set Affiliate link

This set includes 14-inch hi-hats, an 18-inch crash/ride, and a 14-inch crash. It is made from brass in Germany. The traditional finish provides a bright sound. The package weighs 8 pounds. It replaces entry-level cymbals with durable options. You get a two-year warranty. This is a solid choice for electronic drum kits seeking realistic brass tones.

Pros

• Constructed from German brass
• Includes 14-inch hi-hats, 18-inch crash/ride, and 14-inch crash
• Two-year warranty coverage
• Traditional finish for a classic look

Cons

• Only three cymbals included
• Standard brass material
• No remote control

Good fit if

• You want German-made brass cymbals
• You need a basic crash and ride setup
• You prefer a traditional finish

Skip if

• You require a full five-piece pack
• You need low-volume silent cymbals
• You want a larger 20-inch option

Verdict: Meinl HCS 14/14/18 Brass Cymbal Set offers German brass construction and a three-cymbal pack. It fits players who want a compact, durable set with a two-year warranty.

7 Best 14" hi-hats

Pearl BRDS Low-Volume 4-Piece Cymbal Set

Best for: Drummers needing 14-inch hi-hats with metal feel

Piece Count

4

Material

Metal Cymbal Alloy

Finish

Brilliant Chrome

Volume Level

Low volume

Included Accessories

Gig Bag

Cymbal Configuration

20" Ride, 14" Hi-Hats

View on Amazon: Pearl BRDS Low-Volume 4-Piece Cymbal Set Affiliate link

The Pearl BRDS is a 4-piece low-volume cymbal set designed for quieter practice. It includes 14-inch hi-hats, a 16-inch crash, an 18-inch crash, and a 20-inch ride. The metal alloy construction with a brilliant chrome finish provides a realistic feel while reducing volume. This pack comes with a durable gig bag for easy transport. It is ideal for drummers seeking a compact, portable solution for student-level kits.

Pros

• Includes 14-inch hi-hats for solid time-keeping
• Metal cymbal alloy for warm tones and stick definition
• Brilliant chrome finish with precision perforation for reduced volume
• Comes with a durable woven gig bag

Cons

• Fewer pieces than the 5-piece alternatives on this list
• Heavier at 9.5 pounds compared to some plastic options
• Lacks the included drum silencer pads found in some competitor packs

Good fit if

• You need a dedicated pair of 14-inch hi-hats
• You prefer the feel of metal alloy over plastic
• You want a complete set that includes a carrying bag

Skip if

• You require a 5-piece configuration for a full kit
• You prioritize a lighter weight under 5 pounds
• You need drum silencer pads included with the cymbals

Verdict: Pearl BRDS Metal Alloy Low-Volume Cymbal Pack offers a solid metal build and includes 14-inch hi-hats, making it a practical choice for drummers who prioritize realistic feel and portability in a 4-piece setup.

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See also

• cartesian 5 piece oval counter alternatives
• global teikoku 5 piece stainless alternatives