The Impact of Humidity on Drum Set Cymbals

Humidity can have a significant effect on the performance and longevity of your drum set, particularly on cymbals. Understanding how and why this happens is crucial for maintaining the sound quality of your instruments. In this article, we will explore the various ways humidity affects drum set cymbals and how you can protect them.

Material Properties

Cymbals are typically made from metal alloys such as bronze or brass. These materials can be vulnerable to corrosion or oxidation when exposed to high humidity. Over time, this can alter the sound quality and appearance of your cymbals. High humidity can cause metals to rust, leading to a dull, lifeless sound, while low humidity can enhance their brightness and clarity due to the metal's ability to retain its natural luster.

Sound Quality

The tonal characteristics of cymbals are greatly influenced by humidity. High humidity levels can cause the cymbals to sound muddier and less resonant, while low humidity can make them sound more brilliant and clear. Humidity can also affect the way cymbals interact with the air and other instruments, leading to a change in their overall sound quality.

Physical Changes

Extreme humidity levels can lead to physical changes in cymbals, such as warping or cracking. This is more common in undrained cymbals or those exposed to rapid changes in humidity. Significant fluctuations can cause stress in the metal, leading to structural damage. However, it is less common for modern cymbals with improved finishing techniques and care.

Storage Conditions

Proper storage is crucial to minimize the negative effects of humidity on cymbals. It is advisable to store your cymbals in a stable environment with controlled humidity levels. Keeping them in a controlled case or bag designed to protect against moisture can help prevent damage. Regular cleaning to remove any buildup of moisture or contaminants is also essential.

Real-World Experience

Bart's experience from the summer of 1975 provides a vivid example of how atmospheric moisture can affect drum set cymbals. During this period, his drum set was frequently exposed to changing weather conditions, including rain and sun. After a particularly rainy outdoor gig, he noticed a significant change in the sound quality of his cymbals. Initially, he thought the issue was with the soundproofing, but as the summer progressed and the weather conditions fluctuated, he realized the cymbals were indeed affected.

The cymbals sounded rougher, with a darker coloration, and the high hats were not affected nearly as much. Over the years, the sound of all his cymbals changed, with his first set of Avedis Zildjians changing dramatically during that summer. This experience highlighted the importance of environmental factors in the preservation and sound quality of drum set cymbals.

In conclusion, while drum set cymbals can be affected by humidity, proper storage and regular maintenance can help mitigate the issues. By understanding the impact of humidity and taking steps to protect your cymbals, you can ensure they continue to produce the desired sound quality long into the future.