116XACN vs 2201287XB — Compare
16" HHX COMPLEX AERO CRASH vs Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Ride
The HHX Complex Aero is a 16" crash cymbal with dark, complex tones and sharp attack ideal for rock and metal, while the AAX X-Plosion is a 20" ride cymbal with bright, cutting tones designed as a primary ride for defined grooves and dense mixes. Choose the crash if you need articulate crash sounds; choose the ride if you need a versatile primary ride cymbal.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| 16" HHX COMPLEX AERO CRASH | Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Ride | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $419.99 | $424.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 16" | 20" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose 16" HHX COMPLEX AERO CRASH
- ✓ Sharp, cutting attack with boosted high frequencies cuts through mixes
- ✓ Dark, complex character with rich B20 bronze tones in decay
- ✓ Thin/punchy profile at 908g makes it responsive and articulate
- ✓ Aero design adds subtle hissing character for modern rock/metal edge
Why choose Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Ride
- ✓ 20" size and medium weight offer projection and versatility as primary ride
- ✓ Large raw bell provides focused articulation and defined pitch center
- ✓ Bright B20 bronze in brilliant finish delivers clarity across full dynamic range
- ✓ Medium to long sustain balances pocket definition with shimmer potential
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either cymbal as a general-purpose crash-ride?
No. The HHX Complex Aero is a crash with quick decay and sharp attack; the AAX X-Plosion is a dedicated ride with medium-to-long sustain and focused bell articulation. They serve different functions and sonic purposes.
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
The HHX Complex Aero Crash is optimized for metal and hard rock with its sharp cutting attack, dark character, and hissing edge. The AAX X-Plosion Ride works for rock/metal contexts but as a ride, not crash.
What's the weight and thickness difference?
The HHX Complex Aero is approximately 908g in a thin/punchy profile at 16". The AAX X-Plosion is a 20" ride in medium weight with no specific weight listed, making it substantially larger and heavier for projection and sustain.
Are both B20 bronze?
Yes, both are B20 bronze construction. The HHX uses a porous design with raw bell for complex tones; the AAX X-Plosion uses a brilliant finish for bright clarity.