The cymbals are two circular brass metal plates with leather handles in the centre. They come in several sizes, and can be played in various ways such as clashing it together, hitting one plate with a stick, or playing a roll on one cymbal mounted on a stand.

When clashed together, the effect can be very ear-shattering. The cymbals may be allowed to ring till the sound dies away, or the sound can be dampened by touching the pair of cymbals to the player's chest immediately after it has been struck.