SABIAN 16" AA Apollo Hat Top
Description
SABIAN 16" AA Apollo Hat Top
The SABIAN 16" AA Apollo Hat Top delivers responsive, articulate feel under stick and pedal with its thin profile and balanced weight distribution. This bright, vintage-voiced cymbal speaks with clarity and projection, cutting through live mix while maintaining musicality. The natural finish and B20 bronze construction ensure both aesthetic appeal and reliable performance across studio, stage, and rehearsal room.
Tone & Projection
Built with a bright sound signature and vintage styling, this top cymbal articulates with definition while the balanced thin-to-medium-thin pairing creates responsive decay ideal for dynamic playing. The combination cuts through without sacrificing the musicality that makes vintage-voiced cymbals coveted by players who demand character and control.
Construction & Durability
Crafted from B20 bronze with a natural finish, this pair is built for the working drummer. The precisely matched weights—1142 grams (top) and 1331 grams (bottom)—ensure stable, predictable response across dynamic playing and repeated gigging. The heavy-duty construction withstands consistent use, delivering reliable performance night after night.
Key Features
- Material: B20 bronze
- Top cymbal weight: Thin (1142 grams)
- Bottom cymbal weight: Medium-Thin (1331 grams)
- Diameter: 16 inches
- Sound character: Bright
- Finish: Natural
- Style: Vintage
- Model Number: 21680AH
- Heavy-duty construction for extended durability
- Balanced pair setup for hat cymbal applications
The AA Apollo Hat Top pairs tonal character with build quality, delivering bright articulation and lasting performance for drummers who need dependable cymbals that sound great and stand up to heavy play.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 16" |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The SABIAN 16" AA Apollo Hat Top is a bright, articulate hi-hat pair built from B20 bronze with a thin top and medium-thin bottom for responsive stick definition and quick decay. Designed for drummers across jazz, rock, funk, and live performance, these cymbals cut through the mix with vintage character and modern durability. The balanced 1142g/1331g weight pairing ensures predictable feel under both stick and pedal, making them a dependable choice for gigging and studio work alike.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Heavy Metal
- – Thrash Metal
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill levels is this hi-hat pair suitable for?
The SABIAN AA Apollo Hat Top works for beginners through professionals. Its responsive, balanced feel and bright articulation support learning drummers and experienced players alike across jazz, rock, funk, studio, and live settings.
What genres is this pair best suited for?
These hats excel in jazz, rock, funk, studio sessions, and live performance. Their bright, articulate character and quick decay are not recommended for heavy metal or thrash metal styles.
What are the specifications of the top and bottom cymbals?
The top cymbal weighs 1142 grams (thin profile) and the bottom weighs 1331 grams (medium-thin), both 16 inches in diameter. They are crafted from B20 bronze with a natural finish for both durability and aesthetic appeal.
How does the tone compare to other budget hi-hat options?
The SABIAN AA Apollo Hat Top delivers a bright, vintage-voiced sound with clear projection and responsive decay, positioning it alongside comparable budget options like the Zildjian New Beat and Paiste PST while offering balanced articulation across dynamic playing.
Will these cymbals work in both live and studio contexts?
Yes. The B20 bronze construction and matched weight pairing provide heavy-duty durability and consistent response in any setting, making them reliable for both live performance and recording sessions.