Most cymbals are made from bronze alloys named for their tin content, and this composition is one of the biggest factors in how a cymbal actually sounds - independent of brand.
The main alloys
- B20 bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) is the higher-end standard, used for most professional-level cymbals. It is a softer, more malleable alloy that produces a more complex harmonic structure and greater capacity for resonance - valued for its warmth and responsiveness, particularly in jazz playing.
- B8 bronze (92% copper, 8% tin) is harder and more durable than B20, with a simpler overtone structure that gives a more direct, focused sound. It is common on budget and entry-level cymbal lines, and its directness and cut are also specifically valued by some rock and metal players.
- B10 bronze (roughly 90% copper, 10% tin) sits between the two, aiming for some of B20's complexity at a lower price point.
What this means for buying used
Alloy is not simply "better vs. worse" - it's a genuine tonal choice, and B8 cymbals are not automatically inferior, just different and generally more affordable. When evaluating used cymbals, alloy tells you the general character to expect, but individual cymbals within the same alloy and even the same model line still vary - especially in premium lines, which is why in-person testing before buying (see the separate article on inspecting used cymbals) matters more than for most other gear.
