21806TSSLB vs 218SHN/2 — Compare
18" AA SPOT LIGHT CRASH vs SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Bottom
The AA Spotlight Crash is a dedicated crash cymbal with warm, musical projection for crashing and accents, while the AA Sick Hat Bottom is a hi-hat cymbal pair designed for tight, controllable articulation and cutting through dense mixes. Choose the Spotlight Crash if you need expressive crash sounds for live rock and metal; choose the Sick Hat Bottom if you need a versatile hi-hat pair with two sonic voices for gigging and studio work.
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Specs side by side
| 18" AA SPOT LIGHT CRASH | SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Bottom | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $344.99 | $344.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 18" | 18" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose 18" AA SPOT LIGHT CRASH
- ✓ Warm, musical tone with buttery feel—expressive across dynamics
- ✓ Large raw bell and hammered profile create cutting projection without harshness
- ✓ Purpose-built crash cymbal designed for live stage impact
Why choose SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Bottom
- ✓ Two voices in one pair—flip the bottom cymbal to change sonic character and eliminate airlock
- ✓ Thin, dry response cuts through dense mixes with controllable white-noise articulation
- ✓ Medium-heavy bottom provides stability and working-tool precision for gigging and studio
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Sick Hat Bottom as a crash cymbal?
No. The Sick Hat Bottom is a hi-hat cymbal pair (two cymbals mounted on a stand), designed for articulation and closure. The Spotlight Crash is a single crash cymbal for accent and dynamic crashes. They serve different roles on a drum kit.
What does 'flipping' the Sick Hat Bottom actually do?
The bottom cymbal has no holes, while the top has large perforations. Flipping the pair reverses which cymbal faces up, changing how air flows and reducing the 'airlock' feel, which transforms the tonal character and playability without changing hardware or cymbals.
Which is better for metal and hard rock—the Spotlight Crash or Sick Hat Bottom?
The Spotlight Crash is specifically designed for hard rock and metal because it delivers bold, cutting projection with musical warmth. The Sick Hat Bottom is a hi-hat pair suited to the same genres for tight, controllable articulation and hi-hat work, not crash sounds.
Are both cymbals suitable for intermediate players?
Yes. Both are rated for intermediate, advanced, and professional skill levels. The Spotlight Crash rewards dynamic control and expression, while the Sick Hat Bottom requires precision technique to maximize its versatility and two-voice capability.