21402XC-1 vs 21402XL-1 — Compare
SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top vs SABIAN 14" AAX X-Celerator Hat Top
The AAX Medium Hat Top emphasizes nuanced lows and complex harmonics for blended, sophisticated sounds; the AAX X-Celerator prioritizes cutting brightness and tight articulation for punch and clarity. Choose the Medium Hat for jazz and studio work, or the X-Celerator for rock and metal where cutting through is essential.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top | SABIAN 14" AAX X-Celerator Hat Top | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $254.99 | $254.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 14" | 14" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top
- ✓ Nuanced lows and subtle darkness create sophisticated, blended tone
- ✓ Complex harmonics from distinctive hammering pattern
- ✓ Excellent for studio recording and fast playing styles
- ✓ Sits seamlessly into contemporary drum sounds
Why choose SABIAN 14" AAX X-Celerator Hat Top
- ✓ Air Wave ripple design eliminates airlock for super-clean articulation
- ✓ Brighter, more cutting response cuts through live mix
- ✓ Tight, controlled feel with focused bell and punchy stick definition
- ✓ Better suited for rock and metal applications
Frequently asked questions
Which hat works better for jazz?
The AAX Medium Hat Top is designed specifically for jazz, delivering nuanced lows and complex harmonics that blend well in jazz contexts. The X-Celerator is optimized for rock and metal, not jazz.
What is the Air Wave design and why does it matter?
The Air Wave ripple design on the X-Celerator bottom allows air to escape freely between cymbals, eliminating trapped air pockets. This produces super-clean stick articulation and a tighter, more controlled pedal feel—especially useful in live performance.
How do the weights compare?
The AAX Medium Hat Top weighs 1027g (top) and 1287g (bottom), while the X-Celerator top weighs approximately 1077g. Both are medium-weight classifications, but the X-Celerator is designed to pair with its specific bottom for optimal cutting clarity.
Which is better for studio recording?
The AAX Medium Hat Top is explicitly engineered for studio work, with a thinner-sounding pairing ideal for recording sessions. The X-Celerator is designed primarily for live performance and cutting through a mix.