12016XN vs A1655/1 — Compare
Sabian 20" HHX Chinese vs SABIAN 16" Artisan Sym Meduim Heavy Single
The Sabian HHX Chinese is a 20" cymbal designed for rock, metal, and live performance with aggressive attack and cutting projection, while the Artisan Sym is a 16" orchestral/classical hand cymbal with dark warmth and focused articulation for ensemble and chamber work. Choose the HHX for high-volume rock and studio rock sessions; choose the Artisan Sym for orchestral, classical, and marching applications.
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Specs side by side
| Sabian 20" HHX Chinese | SABIAN 16" Artisan Sym Meduim Heavy Single | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549.99 | $544.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Effects | Suspended |
| Cymbal Size | 20" | 16" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 20" HHX Chinese
- ✓ 20" size with aggressive, cutting attack ideal for rock and metal genres
- ✓ B20 bronze with pinpoint lathing and HHX Tone Projection technology cuts through in live and studio mixes
- ✓ Medium-thin weight makes it responsive and articulate for fast cymbal work
- ✓ Suitable for intermediate through professional drummers
Why choose SABIAN 16" Artisan Sym Meduim Heavy Single
- ✓ Hand-crafted by master artisans using traditional high-density hammering and modern jumbo-peen dimpling
- ✓ Dark tone with rich warmth and longer sustain ideal for orchestral and chamber music
- ✓ Medium Heavy weight provides focused, articulate voice at soft to moderate dynamic levels
- ✓ 16" size is perfect for attached cymbal/bass drum configurations and ensemble playing
Frequently asked questions
Which cymbal is better for rock and metal drumming?
The Sabian HHX Chinese is designed specifically for rock, metal, and hard rock with its aggressive attack, cutting sustain, and pinpoint projection. The Artisan Sym is explicitly not ideal for rock and is optimized for classical and orchestral settings.
What is the main tonal difference between these two cymbals?
The HHX Chinese delivers aggressive, articulate, quick-decay tones with cutting sustain for clarity in high-volume settings. The Artisan Sym produces a darker tone with rich warmth, longer sustain, and a more focused voice suited to soft-to-moderate ensemble playing.
What is the size difference and does it matter?
The HHX is 20" while the Artisan Sym is 16". The larger HHX provides broader projection and fuller crash-ride definition for rock/live use; the smaller Artisan Sym is optimized for orchestral work and attached cymbal configurations like marches.
Which is better for a beginner or intermediate drummer?
The HHX Chinese is rated for intermediate through professional drummers and suits rock/metal players. The Artisan Sym is rated for advanced and professional players primarily in classical and orchestral contexts, making it a more specialized choice.