12118XNJD vs FRX2012 — Compare
Sabian 21" HHX 3-Point Ride vs Sabian 20” Ride FRX
The HHX 3-Point is a larger, heavier jazz ride with three distinct tonal zones and deep washiness, while the FRX is a lighter, more controlled studio and live workhorse designed to minimize wash and cut cleanly through dense mixes. Choose the HHX for creative jazz and fusion exploration; choose the FRX for studio precision and noise-sensitive environments.
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
| Sabian 21" HHX 3-Point Ride | Sabian 20” Ride FRX | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $584.99 | $569.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Ride | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 21" | 20" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 21" HHX 3-Point Ride
- ✓ 21-inch diameter provides greater presence and projection
- ✓ Three distinct playing zones offer tonal versatility within one cymbal
- ✓ Hand-hammered B20 bronze with unlathed centre creates complex, modern-dark character
- ✓ Developed with jazz legend Jack DeJohnette for authoritative musicality
Why choose Sabian 20” Ride FRX
- ✓ 20-inch size and light weight offer easier control and faster response
- ✓ Micro-perforations reduce unwanted frequencies and excessive wash
- ✓ Buttery-soft feel requires minimal stick effort for clean articulation
- ✓ Engineered for studio and confined live spaces where frequency control matters
Frequently asked questions
Which ride is better for tight, controlled studio recording?
The FRX 20 is purpose-built for studio work, with micro-perforations that reduce frequency wash and deliver crisp, controlled stick definition ideal for dense mixes. The HHX 3-Point excels in jazz creativity but produces deeper, washier overtones less suited to frequency-critical tracking.
Can I use either ride for both jazz and live performance?
Yes, both are listed as suitable for jazz and live performance. However, the HHX 3-Point shines in jazz and fusion where its tonal complexity and projection are assets, while the FRX is optimized for live venues where cymbal wash becomes problematic and noise isolation matters.
What is the practical weight and size difference?
The HHX is a 21-inch ride weighing 1916–2520g (typically 2492g), while the FRX is a 20-inch light ride—roughly one inch smaller and significantly lighter. The heavier HHX sustains longer with deeper overtones; the lighter FRX responds faster and damps more quickly for controlled articulation.
Which ride has more playing surfaces and tonal variety?
The HHX 3-Point features three distinct playing zones with different sonic characters: dry, controlled tones in the inner and middle sections and deep, washy overtones at the edge. The FRX is a conventional single-surface ride optimized for consistent, controlled definition rather than tonal zone exploration.