Meinl Prototype 20" | 2146g | Dark Complex Old K Istanbul Style Ride | Hand Hammered with Paperthin Edges | Rare

Old K Istanbul style lathing and hand-hammered surface with a wide, shimmering wash and expressive openness.

This Meinl Prototype 20" Ride is a fully hand hammered, one-of-a-kind cymbal with a character that strongly resembles old Istanbul K cymbals. It is extremely thin at the edge and becomes noticeably denser and more stable toward the bell, creating a dark, complex and very musical response with exceptional depth.

The cymbal delivers a dark, smoky wash combined with clear and articulate stick definition. The low profile provides a fast response, a deep tonal foundation and a smooth, controlled sustain. The bell is dark, warm and naturally integrated. It crashes beautifully and opens with an organic, musical spread. When played louder it builds into an intense, floating wash, typical of high-end Istanbul-style hand hammered cymbals.

The hammering is deep, irregular and fully hand applied. The fine lathing reinforces the vintage Istanbul aesthetic. The cymbal is marked 2170g, but the accurate measured weight is 2146g. There are no stamps or serial markings. The previous owner stated it was a Meinl prototype, and both the construction and sound strongly support that classification.

This cymbal is perfect for jazz, contemporary, studio work and acoustic settings where a dark, complex, expressive voice is required. It fits naturally in the categories Dark Ride, Complex Ride and Vintage Istanbul Style. It is a highly responsive, musical and unique instrument.

Sold exactly as pictured. Private sale, no returns or warranty.
Reverb Buyer Protection applies.