Istanbul Mehmet LD-R22 Legend Dark Ride 22-Inch Cymbal

Istanbul Mehmet LD-R22 Legend Dark Ride 22-Inch Cymbal
The Istanbul Mehmet Jazz Series LD-R22 Legend Dark Ride 22-Inch cymbal is a premium, hand-crafted ride cymbal designed for jazz musicians who seek warm, dark, and expressive tones. It belongs to the Legend Dark series, which emphasizes vintage character and complex musical response.

Specifications
Model: LD-R22
Series: Jazz Series – Legend Dark
Type: Ride Cymbal
Size: 22 inches (Large format for fuller tone)
Material: B20 Bronze Alloy (80% copper, 20% tin)
Finish: Traditional with partial lathing and unlathed areas (for dry/dark tonality)
Weight: Medium-thin (hand-hammered, not mass-produced)
Bell: Small to medium-sized for articulate response

Key Features
Dark, smoky, and warm tone – perfect for jazz, fusion, and expressive genres
Excellent stick definition with a controlled wash – allows for articulate ride patterns
Soft, complex overtones that blend beautifully in ensemble settings
Low to medium sustain – doesn’t overpower other instruments
Raw, unlathed bell produces a distinct, dry tone for bell hits
Responds well to light and dynamic playing – ideal for nuanced jazz articulation
Versatile enough for both ride patterns and crashing (light crash)

Best Use / Musical Fit
Ideal for: Jazz, Bebop, Fusion, Neo-Soul, Acoustic
Best for: Players who want dry articulation, vintage warmth, and rich tonal color
Performs well in: Small combo, studio settings, or low-volume live gigs

Selling Points
Handcrafted by master cymbalsmiths in Istanbul using centuries-old techniques
Part of Istanbul Mehmet’s highly respected Jazz Series, modeled after 1950s-60s ride cymbals
Complex yet musical character – blends naturally in both solo and ensemble settings
Offers a unique “old-school” jazz ride tone that modern cymbals rarely replicate