12249 vs H22R — Compare
Sabian 22" HH Rock Ride vs SABIAN 22" Hammertone Ride
The Sabian 22" HH Rock Ride prioritizes cutting power and dynamic range for loud, energetic playing across rock, funk, and jazz, while the Sabian 22" Hammertone Ride emphasizes articulate stick definition and controlled wash for intimate jazz and studio work. Choose the HH Rock Ride if you need stage presence and high-volume versatility; choose the Hammertone if you favor precision, musicality, and ensemble balance.
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 22" HH Rock Ride | SABIAN 22" Hammertone Ride | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $699.99 | $699.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Ride | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 22" | 22" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 22" HH Rock Ride
- ✓ Loud penetrating attack cuts through dense mixes and live performance volumes
- ✓ Bright bell with high-end cut delivers presence without muddiness
- ✓ Dynamic range responsiveness suits rock, funk, and jazz equally well
- ✓ Heavy weight (approx. 3,750g) and 2,000–4,000 hammer blows ensure durability
Why choose SABIAN 22" Hammertone Ride
- ✓ High-profile bow curvature and tapered edges provide articulate, controlled stick definition
- ✓ Warm, focused musical ride sound integrates seamlessly in small ensembles and studios
- ✓ Dual-purpose ride/crash design eliminates need for separate crash cymbal
- ✓ Developed with jazz legend Jeff Hamilton for precision musicality over raw power
Frequently asked questions
Which cymbal works better for jazz?
Both handle jazz, but differently. The HH Rock Ride emphasizes complex traditional character and dynamic range across all genres, making it versatile for jazz fusion and louder settings. The Hammertone Ride is purpose-built for jazz with articulate stick definition and controlled wash, ideal for small ensembles and intimate sessions where precision matters more than cutting power.
Can the Hammertone Ride replace a separate crash cymbal?
Yes—the Hammertone's tapered edges and high-profile bow are designed to function as both a focused ride and a warm, controlled crash, making it a true dual-purpose cymbal. The HH Rock Ride is primarily a ride; its bright bell and penetrating attack suit ride work best, though it can crash if needed.
Which is louder and more suitable for high-volume live performance?
The HH Rock Ride delivers a loud, penetrating attack with powerful high-end cut designed to cut through any mix, making it the choice for loud rock, funk, and high-volume live venues. The Hammertone Ride is optimized for articulate musicality in smaller spaces and studios, not high-volume stages.
What is the weight and construction difference?
The HH Rock Ride weighs approximately 3,750 grams with 2,000–4,000 hammer blows from the HH Remastered process. The Hammertone Ride uses extensive hand hammering and a specialized lathing technique to achieve its high-profile bow curvature; specific weight is not listed, but its design prioritizes responsiveness over sheer mass.