21487XB vs NP1302-1B — Compare
Sabian 14" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish vs SABIAN 13" Paragon Hat Top Brilliant Finish
The AAX X-Plosion is a crash cymbal built for explosive, cutting power in metal and hard rock; the Paragon Hat Top is a hi-hat cymbal designed for articulate, controlled stick definition in rock, pop, and fusion. Choose the crash if you need a cymbal for crashing accents in high-volume settings; choose the hat top if you want a hi-hat for tight, crisp hi-hat patterns.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Sabian 14" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
Specs side by side
| Sabian 14" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish | SABIAN 13" Paragon Hat Top Brilliant Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $254.99 | $249.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 14" | 13" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 14" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Extra-thin profile delivers immediate, explosive attack ideal for cutting through dense mixes
- ✓ B20 bronze with dual-lathing ensures consistent bright, penetrating tone across the surface
- ✓ Brilliant finish maximizes cutting presence in high-volume metal and hard rock ensembles
Why choose SABIAN 13" Paragon Hat Top Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Medium-top/heavy-bottom configuration balances responsive stick articulation with stability
- ✓ AA-style hammering and Brilliant finish produce high-definition clarity perfect for tight hi-hat control
- ✓ Medium-weight design works across contemporary styles requiring both punch and musicality
Frequently asked questions
What's the main difference between these two cymbals?
The AAX X-Plosion is a 14" crash cymbal designed for explosive accents and cutting presence in high-volume contexts. The Paragon Hat Top is a 13" hi-hat cymbal built for articulate stick definition and controlled patterns. They serve completely different functions in a drum kit.
Which cymbal works better for metal and hard rock?
The AAX X-Plosion is specifically designed for thrash metal and hard rock, with an extra-thin profile and B20 bronze construction that cuts through dense mixes. The Paragon Hat Top is optimized for rock, pop, and fusion but is a hi-hat, not a crash, so it fills a different role.
Are both cymbals at the same price tier?
Yes, both are listed in the budget price tier and are made from B20 bronze with Brilliant finishes. However, they cannot be directly compared on value since one is a crash and one is a hi-hat—each serves a specific need in your setup.
Which one should I buy if I'm intermediate/advanced and building a full kit?
If you need a crash cymbal for aggressive playing, the AAX X-Plosion delivers the cutting power required. If you need a hi-hat, the Paragon Hat Top provides responsive stick clarity. Most drummers need both types, so you may want to consider purchasing both for a complete cymbal setup.