SABIAN 22" HHX TEMPEST
Description
SABIAN 22" HHX Tempest Cymbal
The 22" HHX Tempest delivers a beautifully controlled swell across its dynamic range, responding equally well to stick articulation or mallet work with a warm, dark undertone. Its medium thin profile and aggressive hammering create an instrument with exceptional versatility, bridging the gap between drum set intensity and orchestral subtlety. This cymbal stands out for its unique character and light ride capabilities, making it a distinctive choice for players seeking more than standard applications.
Sonic Character & Application
Built with B20 bronze alloy and shaped by aggressive HHX hammering, the Tempest excels across multiple performance contexts—equally reliable in a drum kit or orchestral setting. The medium thin weight classification paired with the traditional natural finish produces a warm, dark wash with excellent articulation and control, even at lower dynamic levels, making it dependable for both intimate venues and full-volume stages.
Build & Materials
This cymbal features SABIAN's premium B20 bronze construction combined with the signature HHX hammering pattern, delivering consistent stick response and tonal depth that holds up under road use and repeated performance demands. The traditional natural finish reflects SABIAN's hand-crafted approach while maintaining the sonic properties critical for both controlled studio tracking and uncompromised live stage performance.
Key Features
- 22" diameter size
- Medium Thin weight category
- B20 bronze alloy material
- Aggressive HHX hammering pattern
- Traditional natural finish
- Multi-application design (drum set and orchestral)
- MPN: 1221XTN
- Shipping weight: 5 lbs
- Controlled dynamic swell response
- Superior light ride capabilities
- Warm, dark undertone wash
- Versatile stick and mallet playability
The HHX Tempest combines refined tonal control with the flexibility to perform across genre and ensemble contexts, making it a road-ready choice for drummers and percussionists seeking a single instrument with genuine multi-purpose capability and the durability to back it up night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 22" |
Reviews
At a Glance
The SABIAN 22" HHX Tempest is a medium-thin B20 bronze ride cymbal with aggressive hammering that delivers a warm, dark wash with controlled articulation and excellent stick response across dynamic ranges. Built for gigging musicians who need one versatile cymbal that works equally well in a drum kit, fusion ensemble, or orchestral setting, it bridges intensity and subtlety without compromise. Choose it for its refined tonal control, light ride capabilities, and ability to respond to both stick definition and mallet work without losing the character that makes your sound distinctive.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Fusion
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Orchestral
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Punk
- – Thrash Metal
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the HHX Tempest different from a standard 22" ride cymbal?
The Tempest combines a medium-thin weight with aggressive HHX hammering to create a warm, dark wash while maintaining excellent stick articulation and light ride capabilities. This design bridges the gap between drum set intensity and orchestral subtlety in a single instrument, giving it genuine multi-application versatility.
Is the HHX Tempest suitable for jazz and fusion playing?
Yes. The Tempest excels in jazz and fusion contexts with its controlled dynamic swell response, refined tonal control, and ability to handle both stick definition and mallet work, making it equally at home in small ensemble or full band settings.
What is the weight and material composition?
The HHX Tempest is built with B20 bronze alloy in a medium-thin weight category, features aggressive HHX hammering, and carries a traditional natural finish. It is 22" in diameter and weighs 5 lbs.
Can this cymbal work for orchestral or classical applications?
Yes. The medium-thin profile, warm dark undertone, and refined tonal control make the Tempest well-suited to orchestral and classical settings, where its controlled swell and low-volume articulation are particularly valuable.
What genres is this cymbal NOT recommended for?
The HHX Tempest is not designed for punk or thrash metal applications, where heavier, brighter, or more aggressive cymbal characteristics are typically preferred.