Turkish Cymbals Ad Astra Crash-Ride – Dual Identity

The Ad Astra series by Turkish Cymbals takes its name from the Latin motto "Ad astra per aspera" – "Through hardship to the stars." It is the result of over 20 years of stage, touring and studio experience of Turkish drummer and cymbal designer Özgür Can Öney, who worked alongside the master craftsmen of the Turkish Cymbals workshop in Istanbul to develop a series that combines large, dark sounds with controlled, texture-rich performance. Visually, these cymbals are reminiscent of an Ottoman shield – dark finish from the furnace process, natural unlathed surface, and a strikingly large bell.

Sound Character: Voluminous, Warm and Versatile

The Ad Astra Crash-Ride in 20" unites two worlds in a single cymbal: it delivers powerful crash accents with long, voluminous sustain and at the same time a clear, articulate ride sound with an expressive yet controlled wash. This dual identity makes it one of the most versatile cymbals in the Ad Astra series. The large surface produces a wide tonal spectrum that ranges from powerful crash moments to subtly flowing ride patterns depending on playing technique. The natural, unlathed surface of the Ad Astra series provides organic depth and a characteristically dark tone.

Applications: Rock, Funk, Fusion and Progressive

The Ad Astra Crash-Ride is ideal for drummers who value versatility. In Rock and Progressive music it delivers powerful crash moments with substance. In Funk and Fusion the ride function impresses with clear articulation and musical character. As an alternative second ride in large setups or as a primary crash-ride in compact setups – this cymbal adapts without losing its character. In combination with the 22" Ad Astra Ride and the 18" Ad Astra Crash it forms a harmonically matched cymbal system.

Craftsmanship from Istanbul – At the Best Price

Every Ad Astra cymbal is crafted at the Turkish Cymbals workshop in Istanbul following a tradition that reaches back centuries. The secret B20 bronze alloy – 80% copper, 20% tin – is hand-cast, heated in traditional furnaces, and hammered thousands of times by master craftsmen. Only the bell is lathed – the rest of the surface deliberately remains raw and untreated. This gives each cymbal its organic, natural character that cannot be replicated in any factory. We at Cymballand are proud, as the official partner of Turkish Cymbals, to bring this craftsmanship directly to you – without intermediaries, at the best price.