Looking Beyond the Meinl Percussion Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass? 5 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these alternatives compare

Arborea Low Volume 5-Piece Cymbal Pack

The Arborea Low Volume 5-Piece Cymbal Pack targets quiet practice environments, differing significantly from the Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass set. While the Meinl uses traditional brass for a bright, musical tone, this Arborea option prioritizes noise reduction. It includes a 20-inch ride and 16-inch crash, offering a different configuration than the Meinl’s 14-inch hi-hats and 18-inch crash/ride. The silver high-grade finish provides a distinct aesthetic compared to the Meinl’s traditional look. You should choose this if you need to drum without disturbing neighbors, accepting that tonal richness is secondary to volume control. The five-piece count offers more variety than the Meinl’s three cymbals, though the material focus shifts from pure brass performance to low-volume utility.

Arborea FHC 4-Piece Brass Cymbal Set

The Arborea FHC 4-Piece Brass Cymbal Set offers a smaller, more compact option than the Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass. It contains four pieces of brass, providing a balanced set for beginners who do not need the full range of the Meinl’s three cymbals plus extras. The FHC-Golden finish gives it a warm appearance, contrasting with the Meinl’s traditional finish. This set is ideal for players with limited space or those seeking a simpler setup. While the Meinl provides a comprehensive box pack with hi-hats, crash, and ride, the Arborea FHC focuses on essential brass tones. You should pick this if you need a durable, small set for home practice rather than a complete professional kit. It sacrifices the Meinl’s included hi-hats for a more streamlined, budget-friendly brass configuration.

Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set

The Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set is a minimal two-piece option, unlike the Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass which includes three cymbals. It features a 14-inch pair and an 18-inch cymbal in a gold finish, offering a bright, simple brass sound. The Zildjian set weighs 8.6 pounds, slightly more than the Meinl’s 8 pounds, with larger dimensions. It is designed for beginners who want a small brass set without the complexity of a full box pack. You should choose this if you need just the basics and do not require volume control or a complete kit. It gives up the Meinl’s included bonus crash and hi-hat versatility for a straightforward, affordable brass entry point. The gold color provides a distinct visual alternative to the Meinl’s traditional finish.

Meinl HCS Brass Cymbal Box Set with 10" Splash

The Meinl HCS Brass Cymbal Box Set with 10-inch Splash expands on the original with four cymbals: 10, 14, 16, and 20 inches. This set offers more size variety than the Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass, which includes only 14-inch hi-hats, an 18-inch crash/ride, and a 14-inch crash. The four-piece configuration allows for more creative setups, including a splash effect. It shares the same traditional finish and brass material, ensuring consistent tone and quality. The set weighs 10 pounds, heavier than the original’s 8 pounds, reflecting the additional cymbals. You should choose this if you are upgrading an entry-level kit and want a broader range of sounds. It provides the same reliable German-made quality but with greater flexibility for building a complete setup.

ULUOBO 9-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set

The ULUOBO 9-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set is a comprehensive package for quiet practice, differing from the Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass in both volume and piece count. It includes nine cymbals in a black finish, ranging from 6 to 20 inches, compared to the Meinl’s three cymbals. This set is designed for drummers needing a full range of sounds without disturbing others. The black aesthetic offers a dark, modern look, contrasting with the Meinl’s traditional brass appearance. It weighs 13.7 pounds, significantly more than the Meinl’s 8 pounds, due to the larger number of cymbals. You should choose this if you want a complete low-volume package with accessories. It sacrifices the Meinl’s traditional brass tone for extensive quiet practice options and a broader size range.

Quick picks

Our 6 picks

1 Best overall

Meinl HCS 14/18 Brass Cymbal Set

Best for: beginners seeking a complete e-kit cymbal set

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 hihats, an 18-inch crash/ride, and a bonus 14-inch crash. It is made in Germany from brass with a traditional finish. The precision lathe grooves and hammer marks help shape a musical sound. It is designed for electronic drum kits, replacing flimsy stock cymbals. You get reliable quality and durable construction for regular playing.

Pros

• Includes 14-inch hihats, 18-inch crash/ride, and 14-inch crash
• Made in Germany from brass
• Two-year warranty
• Precision lathe grooves and hammer marks

Cons

• Traditional finish may not match modern aesthetics
• Limited size options compared to expanded packs
• No included mounting hardware

Good fit if

• You need a complete basic set for an e-kit
• You prefer German-made brass cymbals
• You want a durable entry-level option

Skip if

• You require specific effects cymbals
• You need a larger 20-inch ride
• You prefer non-brass materials

Verdict: Meinl HCS Cymbal Set Box Pack offers a solid foundation for electronic drum setups with its German-made brass construction and comprehensive size range. It is ideal for beginners seeking reliable quality and a complete set of essential cymbals.

2 Also great

Arborea Low Volume 5-Piece Cymbal Pack

Best for: quiet apartment drumming practice

Piece Count

5

Material

stainless steel

Finish

Silver- High Grade

Volume Level

low volume

Included Accessories

cymbal bag

Cymbal Configuration

20" Ride, 16" Crash

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

This Arborea set includes a 14-inch hi-hat pair, 16-inch crash, 18-inch crash, and 20-inch ride. It is made of stainless steel with a silver high-grade finish. The cymbals are low volume, offering 80% less noise than regular options. The pack includes a cymbal bag. It suits beginners seeking a quiet practice solution for apartments or bedrooms without hearing damage risks.

Pros

• Stainless steel construction for durability
• Low volume design reduces noise by 80%
• Includes protective cymbal bag
• Polished surface for smoother feel

Cons

• Limited to low volume practice use
• No high-end tonal complexity
• Basic finish options

Good fit if

• You need quiet practice in an apartment
• You want a durable stainless steel set
• You are a beginner drummer

Skip if

• You require full-volume performance sound
• You need professional stage cymbals
• You prefer bronze alloy materials

Verdict: Arborea 5-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Pack is a practical choice for beginners who need to practice quietly in shared spaces without sacrificing durability. It fits users prioritizing noise reduction over tonal richness.

3 Best budget

Arborea FHC 4-Piece Brass Cymbal Set

Best for: beginners needing a small brass set

Piece Count

4

Included Cymbals

10" Splash, 13" Hi-Hats, 14" Crash

Material

brass

View on Amazon: Arborea FHC 4-Piece Brass Cymbal Set Affiliate link

This Arborea set includes a 10-inch splash, 13-inch hi-hats, and 14-inch crash. It features a 4-piece count made from brass alloy. The construction offers clear, bright tones suitable for practice and performance. You get essential sounds for rock, pop, or jazz. It is designed for beginners and students. The set covers basic cymbal needs without extra pieces.

Pros

• Brass alloy construction for durable, bright tones
• Includes 10-inch splash, 13-inch hi-hats, and 14-inch crash
• 4-piece count covers essential practice sounds
• Suitable for beginners and students

Cons

• Only includes 4 pieces, fewer than 5 or 8-piece options
• Lacks a 16-inch or 18-inch crash/ride for larger setups
• No 20-inch ride cymbal included for varied tonal range

Good fit if

• You need a basic 4-piece brass set for practice
• You are a beginner looking for essential cymbal sounds
• You want a durable brass construction for home use

Skip if

• You require a 5-piece or larger set for professional use
• You need a 16-inch crash or 20-inch ride included
• You prefer a low-volume or silent cymbal pack

Verdict: Arborea FHC Brass 4-Piece Set provides essential brass tones for beginners. It fits those who need a small, durable set for home practice rather than a full professional kit.

4 Best gold

Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set

Best for: Beginners seeking a small brass set

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 Zildjian set includes a 14-inch pair and an 18-inch cymbal made of brass. The gold finish offers a bright, focused sound suitable for developing ears. It weighs 8.6 pounds and measures 20.9 by 20.1 inches. The updated hammering provides a refreshed look. This pack is a practical option for beginners needing essential sizes.

Pros

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

Cons

• Only two cymbals included in the set
• No low-volume or mesh pad technology
• Limited to basic brass construction without advanced alloys

Good fit if

• You need a small, affordable starter set
• You prefer the bright sound of brass
• You are looking for a 14-inch and 18-inch combination

Skip if

• You require a full multi-piece cymbal kit
• You need silent practice options for apartments
• You want advanced cymbal alloys like bronze

Verdict: Zildjian Planet Z Pro 14/18 inch Brass Cymbal Set fits beginners who want a simple, bright brass set with just two pieces. It is not suitable for those needing volume control or a complete kit.

5 Best premium

Meinl HCS Brass Cymbal Box Set with 10" Splash

Best for: upgrading entry-level electronic drum kits

Included Cymbals

14" hi-hats, 16" crash, 20" ride

Material

Brass

Finish

Traditional

Country of Origin

Germany

Warranty

2-year

Dimensions

22 × 22 × 3.15 inches

View on Amazon: Meinl HCS Brass Cymbal Box Set with 10" Splash Affiliate link

This Meinl HCS pack replaces flimsy entry-level cymbals with solid brass construction. It includes 14" hihats, a 16" crash, a 20" ride, and a bonus 10" splash. Made in Germany, the traditional finish and precision hammer marks shape a bright, clean sound. The set weighs 10 pounds and measures 22 inches wide. It suits drummers seeking durable, musical cymbals that grow with their skills.

Pros

• Solid brass material for lasting durability
• Includes four distinct sizes: 10", 14", 16", and 20"
• Made in Germany with traditional finish
• Bonus 10" splash adds unique effects

Cons

• 10-pound weight may feel heavy for travel
• No remote or app control included
• Standard brass finish lacks specialized low-volume features

Good fit if

• You want to upgrade from stock cymbals
• You need a complete set with a bonus splash
• You prefer German-made brass construction

Skip if

• You require silent or low-volume playing
• You need a lightweight travel set
• You want digital connectivity or app control

Verdict: Meinl HCS 10/14/16/20" Cymbal Set offers reliable quality for drummers replacing flimsy entry-level hardware. It fits players who value traditional brass sound and expandable setups.

6 Best black

ULUOBO 9-Piece Low Volume Cymbal Set

Best for: quiet home practice with a full range

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

The ULUOBO 9-piece set offers a complete practice range with stainless steel construction. It includes a 14-inch hi-hat pair, 16- and 18-inch crashes, a 20-inch ride, and three splash cymbals. The low-volume design reduces sound by up to 80%, making it suitable for apartments. You get a carrying bag and drumsticks included. The black finish provides a distinct look compared to standard silver options.

Pros

• Includes 9 pieces for a full practice range
• Stainless steel material ensures durability
• Reduces volume by up to 80%
• Comes with a cymbal bag and drumsticks

Cons

• Heavier at 13.7 pounds
• Limited to low-volume practice use
• No mounting hardware included

Good fit if

• You need a complete set for home practice
• You prefer a black finish
• You want included accessories

Skip if

• You require professional stage performance volume
• You need mounting hardware included
• You prefer a lighter set under 10 pounds

Verdict: ULUOBO 9-Piece Black Low Volume Cymbal Set provides a comprehensive 9-piece range for drummers needing quiet practice options. It suits those who want a complete package with accessories and a dark aesthetic.

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