Stick selections can have a massive effect on a ride cymbal. A tip that's too big can overpower your stroke even if you're not trying to play hard. Try the Vic Firth Peter Erskine Ride Stick with the real small tips. I have a 22" Dream Energy Ride that sounds superb with them but a bit uncontrollable with the 5Bs I like to use normally.
I think maybe that is the first thing I should try. I have a few pairs of Vic Firth George Kollias. That's all the info I have but I would estimate they have med to slightly large tips. I just bought them cause an 8 pack was cheap at GC and they seemed decent.
Been reading about cymbals and it's both fun and disheartening at the same time. Ignorance can truly be bliss sometimes. The more I know, the more I want to spend. And I have learned that I very well may ultimately spend more on cymbals than I have on the drums. But looking for and finding the right cymbals sounds like a fun quest.
I really appreciate all the advice everyone is providing in this thread. It is truly eye opening for me.