21105XMPV2 vs 42012X — Compare
SABIAN 11" AAX MAX SPLASH V2 vs Sabian 20" B8X Ride
The AAX MAX SPLASH V2 is a specialized 11" accent cymbal designed for rock and metal's dense mixes, while the B8X Ride is a full-size 20" ride cymbal built for all-around playing across rock, pop, and funk. Choose the splash if you need cutting accent articulation; choose the ride if you need a versatile primary cymbal.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 11" AAX MAX SPLASH V2 | Sabian 20" B8X Ride | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $201.97 | $195.50 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Splash | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 11" | 20" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 11" AAX MAX SPLASH V2
- ✓ Compact 11" size ideal for tight articulation and fast decay
- ✓ Designed by Mike Portnoy with enlarged raw bell for cutting power through dense mixes
- ✓ Pure accent voice without dominant fundamental pitch keeps it from competing with other cymbals
- ✓ Substantial volume and projection despite modest 323g weight
Why choose Sabian 20" B8X Ride
- ✓ Full 20" ride size suitable as a primary cymbal for everyday playing
- ✓ B8 bronze alloy delivers warm yet cutting tone with balanced wash and stick definition
- ✓ Hammered bell construction provides versatility for both articulation and musical wash
- ✓ More affordable entry point into genuine bronze cymbal territory for developing players
Frequently asked questions
What's the main functional difference between these two cymbals?
The AAX MAX SPLASH V2 is a specialized 11" splash designed purely as an accent cymbal with fast decay and no dominant pitch, while the B8X Ride is a full-size 20" ride cymbal meant for playing ride patterns and primary cymbal duties. The splash cuts through mixes as an effect; the ride sustains as your main cymbal voice.
Which cymbal is better for a beginner?
The B8X Ride is explicitly designed for beginners and intermediate players stepping into quality bronze, offering versatility and balance. The AAX MAX SPLASH V2 requires intermediate to advanced skill and is most effective in band or recording contexts where multiple cymbals are in use.
Can I use the splash as my only cymbal or primary ride?
No. The splash's fast decay and lack of fundamental pitch make it unsuitable as a primary ride cymbal—it's designed as a pure accent voice to complement other cymbals. The B8X Ride is built for sustained ride playing across genres.
Which cymbal works better in jazz or classical?
Neither cymbal is ideal for jazz or classical music; both are optimized for rock-based genres. The B8X Ride is the better choice between the two if you must choose, as its warm bronze character and balanced wash have broader applications than the splash's aggressive cutting profile.