The micro-cups serve several functions. They increase the richness of the cymbal while still allowing stick definition. Micro-cups are also rakeable, allowing for one-handed roll effects.

In the past, Flatrides tended to have a dead area near the center. The innovation of using the patent pending micro-cups in the center eliminates this dead spot by tightening the center. They also allow for a broader range of soft to loud tones. The center area can now also be struck in several ways to create bell sounds, but without reducing stick definition.

The 16\" is very dry and subdued, while the 18\" has a fuller sound, but still very controlled. The 21\" has a big, rich sound, which can be bright if needed yet still plenty of stick. The 24\" offers a giant palette of colors from a woody stick to a bright center bell sound. The 21\" and 24\" have several different ride tones. John Stannard, Hammerax President, says:

\"We are extremely pleased with these new Indigo brand Flatrides. They are bright, yet rich... full of stick and highly useful in both straight-ahead and innovative music settings.\"