11806XLN vs 22172X — Compare
Sabian 18" HHX Legacy Crash vs Sabian 21" AAX Raw Bell Dry Ride
The HHX Legacy Crash is a thin 18" cymbal designed for articulate, dark crashes that cut through dense mixes, while the AAX Raw Bell Dry Ride is a medium-heavy 21" ride built for bright, cutting stick definition across rock and jazz. Choose the Crash for focused crash tones in progressive and hard rock; choose the Ride for a versatile workhorse cymbal that handles both soft and driving playing styles.
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Specs side by side
| Sabian 18" HHX Legacy Crash | Sabian 21" AAX Raw Bell Dry Ride | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $464.99 | $459.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 18" | 21" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 18" HHX Legacy Crash
- ✓ Dark, focused sound cuts through without harshness in complex arrangements
- ✓ Thin weight yields rapid response and articulate attack on every strike
- ✓ Smaller 18" size adds versatility to crash cymbal selection
- ✓ Complex harmonic coloration ideal for studio and progressive contexts
Why choose Sabian 21" AAX Raw Bell Dry Ride
- ✓ Larger 21" size provides substantial tone and projection for live settings
- ✓ Medium-heavy weight at 3164g offers stability and presence across dynamics
- ✓ Versatile ride cymbal performs equally well in jazz and rock without compromise
- ✓ Raw bell design delivers modern cutting punch that cuts any mix
Frequently asked questions
Are these cymbals designed for the same purpose?
No. The HHX Legacy Crash is specifically a crash cymbal for articulate, focused impact, while the AAX Raw Bell Dry Ride is a ride cymbal for sustained playing and stick definition. They serve different functions in a cymbal setup.
Which cymbal is better for jazz?
Both excel in jazz contexts. The HHX Legacy Crash provides definition in crash moments, while the AAX Raw Bell Dry Ride is optimized as a primary ride cymbal for jazz playing due to its crisp response and versatility across soft and driving dynamics.
What is the main tonal difference between them?
The HHX Legacy produces a dark sound profile with complex harmonics and controlled decay, while the AAX Raw Bell Dry Ride delivers a bright, modern sound with crystal-clear stick definition. The Crash sits darker in the mix; the Ride cuts brighter.
Do these cymbals use the same alloy and construction method?
Both use B20 bronze alloy and hand-crafted construction. However, the HHX features fine lathing patterns and deeper hammer marks throughout, while the AAX combines full lathing with a distinctive unlathed raw bell for its Modern Bright character.