Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Ride
Description
Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Ride
The Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Ride cuts through live mix with a bright, articulate response and exceptional stick definition. This medium-weight cymbal sits naturally in the hand with a large, raw bell that speaks clearly whether laying down tight grooves or opening up dynamically. The X-Plosion series is engineered for drummers who demand penetrating ride tones that project through dense arrangements without losing musical nuance on stage or in the studio.
Tone & Sustain
Built from B20 bronze in brilliant finish, this cymbal produces a bright character with medium to long sustain. The combination of material and finish delivers clarity and presence across a full dynamic range, making it equally effective for locking in pocket or adding shimmer during crescendos.
Design & Construction
The large, raw bell provides focused articulation and a defined pitch center that responds precisely to stick strikes. The medium weight classification balances responsiveness with projection, delivering the control needed for tight ensemble playing without demanding excessive dynamic input from the player.
Key Features
- 20" ride cymbal size
- B20 bronze alloy construction
- Brilliant finish
- Medium weight
- Medium to long sustain
- Large, raw bell
- Bright sound characteristic
- AAX series design
- X-Plosion model specifications
- Clear stick definition and articulation
This AAX X-Plosion Ride stands as a reliable primary ride for working drummers seeking bright, cutting tones with excellent separation and musical sustain that holds up night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 20" |
| Cymbal Type | Ride |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Ride is a bright, cutting cymbal built from B20 bronze with a large raw bell that delivers excellent stick definition and articulate projection—ideal for drummers playing rock, metal, or funk who need to cut through dense live mixes without sacrificing control. Its medium weight and medium-to-long sustain make it equally effective for tight pocket playing and dynamic crescendos, with a responsive feel that rewards both controlled strikes and open playing. Choose it for a primary ride that handles studio sessions and live stages with presence and clarity.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Traditional Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is this ride, and how does it compare to other rides?
This is a 20" ride cymbal, a standard size suitable for most playing styles and venues. The 20" format offers a good balance between projection and control, making it effective for both studio and live use.
Will this ride work for jazz or traditional music?
The AAX X-Plosion Ride is engineered for rock, metal, and funk where bright, cutting tones and stick definition are priorities. Its bright character and penetrating articulation are not optimized for jazz or traditional folk applications, where darker, more complex sustain is typically preferred.
What skill level do I need to play this cymbal?
This ride is designed for intermediate to advanced and professional drummers. Its medium weight requires solid technique to maximize its articulation and responsiveness.
What material and finish is this cymbal made from?
The AAX X-Plosion Ride is cast from B20 bronze with a brilliant finish, which contributes to its bright character, clarity, and presence across a full dynamic range.
How does this ride perform in a mix during live performance?
Its bright, cutting tone and excellent stick definition allow it to project clearly through dense mixes without getting lost, while the large raw bell provides focused articulation that cuts through without overwhelming other instruments.