Silent Cymbals Explained: The Best Low-Volume Cymbals for Home Practice in 2025

What Are Silent Cymbals and Why Drummers Love Them

Silent cymbals, also called low-volume cymbals, are designed to produce significantly less noise than traditional cymbals—often up to 80% quieter than a traditional cymbal—while still delivering a realistic playing feel. This makes them the perfect solution for practice spaces, small drum lesson rooms, and home studios where controlling volume is crucial.

They allow drummers to practice without disturbing neighbors, roommates, or family members, making them essential for apartment living or late-night rehearsals. Instead of producing a full crash or ride sound, silent cymbals create a softer, muted tone that mimics the attack of a real cymbal without overwhelming volume.

How Do You Reduce the Volume of Cymbals?

There are several easy ways to reduce cymbal volume if you need your drum kit to be a little quieter. While the sound projection and ring from traditional cymbals can be perfect in some situations, they’re not always ideal for home practice or small lesson rooms. Here are some of the most effective solutions.

Using Tape to Reduce Cymbal Volume

One of the simplest tricks is tape, and it’s a quick fix many drummers try first. By placing a few strips of tape on a cymbal, you can immediately reduce overtones and sustain.

However, tape alone won’t dramatically lower the volume. For better results, combine tape with a cloth pad. The bigger the pad, the greater the dampening effect.

Not all tape types are safe for cymbals—duct tape can leave sticky residue or stain the finish. Instead, use gaffer tape or painter’s tape, which remove cleanly without damage.

Placement matters too. Many drummers stick tape to the underside of the cymbal, around the mid-bow, to keep it hidden and out of the way.

Using Cymbal Mutes for Maximum Quiet

For extreme volume control, cymbal mutes are the go-to choice. These come in two main styles:
Top-mounted mutes that lay on the cymbal’s surface.
Edge ring mutes that attach around the rim.

While mutes can kill most of the tone and sustain, they’re perfect for late-night practice sessions in volume-sensitive environments.

DIY Cymbal Mutes

If you’re on a budget, homemade cymbal mutes can work wonders. One option is to cut discs from thin foam padding—such as a yoga mat—and place them under the cymbal on the stand. This keeps them hidden while still absorbing vibration.

You can also use cloth mutes by cutting thick fabric circles to lay on top of the cymbals, securing them with tape if needed. The heavier the fabric, the better the dampening.

Switching to Silent Cymbals

If you want a permanent, hassle-free solution, silent cymbals are the best option. These specially designed cymbals are up to 80% quieter than traditional cymbals and still retain the feel of real metal.

They’re easy to recognize—the surface is perforated with hundreds of tiny holes that drastically cut volume while keeping a realistic rebound. Many drummers love them because they can swap between silent cymbals and standard cymbals depending on the situation.

You’ve Got Options

From budget-friendly DIY fixes to premium silent cymbal sets, there’s a solution for every drummer and every practice space. Whether you choose tape, mutes, or low-volume cymbals, the most important thing is finding a setup that lets you play without disturbing those around you.