SABIAN 18" AAX Suspended
Description
SABIAN 18" AAX Suspended Cymbal
The SABIAN 18" AAX Suspended responds evenly across the full dynamic range, making it equally sensitive at whisper-soft volumes and commanding fortissimos. This cymbal blossoms quickly after being struck, delivering a mid-bright tone with shimmering sustain that cuts through in junior high, high school, collegiate, and professional ensemble settings. Its extended sustain makes it economical enough to double as a crash cymbal when needed.
Tone & Sonic Character
The darker tone quality sits between the brighter AA series and the darker HH/HHX models, giving you tonal flexibility without sacrificing projection on stage. The extended sustain characteristic of suspended cymbals—longer than traditional crashes—allows the sound to develop and evolve naturally, ideal for any musical context requiring sensitivity and control across dynamic levels.
Build & Craftsmanship
B20 bronze construction with a natural finish ensures authentic tone and durability through years of gigging and studio work. Hand-crafted by SABIAN and backed by a two-year warranty, this cymbal meets professional standards while delivering the reliability you need in a workhorse instrument.
Key Features
- 18" size
- B20 bronze material
- Medium-Thin weight
- Bright sound character
- Natural finish
- Darker tone than AA and AA Molto models
- Brighter than HH, HHX, and Artisan models
- Dynamic Focus design eliminates volume threshold and distortion
- Even response at all dynamic levels
- Long sustain for extended tone development
- Handcrafted construction
- Two-year manufacturer warranty
The AAX Suspended delivers professional-grade tone and response in an instrument built to handle ensemble work and extended musical applications night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 18" |
| Cymbal Type | Suspended |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The SABIAN 18" AAX Suspended is a hand-crafted B20 bronze cymbal designed for orchestral, jazz, and ensemble settings, delivering a mid-bright tone with shimmering sustain that responds evenly from whisper-soft to commanding volumes. Built to professional standards with extended decay, it works reliably in junior high through professional ensemble contexts and can double as a crash when needed. Choose it for its balanced projection, natural tone development, and dependable performance across dynamic sensitivity.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Orchestral
- ✓ Concert Band
- ✓ Jazz Ensemble
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Marching Band
- – Heavy Rock/Metal Drumming
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level is this cymbal suited for?
The AAX Suspended is voiced for intermediate, advanced, and professional players. Its even response across the full dynamic range and sensitivity to articulation make it well-suited for ensemble musicians and studio session work who need precise control.
How does the 18" size compare, and what genres is it best for?
The 18" size works across orchestral, concert band, jazz ensemble, and studio session applications. It is not recommended for marching band or heavy rock/metal drumming contexts.
Can I use this as both a suspended cymbal and a crash?
Yes. The extended sustain characteristic of suspended cymbals makes it economical enough to function as a crash when needed, giving you versatility without requiring a separate crash cymbal.
What is the tone character, and how does it compare to other SABIAN series?
The AAX Suspended delivers a mid-bright, shimmering tone that sits between the brighter AA series and the darker HH/HHX models, offering tonal versatility without sacrificing projection or control. It features dynamic focus design that eliminates volume threshold and distortion across all playing levels.
What material and construction does it use?
The cymbal is hand-crafted from B20 bronze with a natural finish, meeting professional standards for durability and authentic tone. It comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty.