21808 vs 218SHN/2 — Compare
SABIAN 18" AA Medium Crash vs SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Bottom
The AA Medium Crash is a single crash cymbal built for aggressive attack and high-volume cut-through in rock and metal, while the Sick Hat Bottom is half of a hi-hat pair designed for controlled, dry articulation in live and studio settings. Choose the crash for crash-specific applications; choose the Sick Hat Bottom if you need a specialized hi-hat setup with adaptable tonal character.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 18" AA Medium 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 SABIAN 18" AA Medium Crash
- ✓ Aggressive bright attack with immediate punch and cutting projection
- ✓ Full-bodied tone that cuts through dense mixes in high-volume settings
- ✓ Single 18" crash cymbal—versatile for rock, metal, and hard-hitting genres
- ✓ Medium weight balances responsiveness and durability
Why choose SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Bottom
- ✓ Thin, dry response with controllable white-noise articulation for precision playing
- ✓ Flippable design—hole-side or solid-side down transforms sonic character without hardware changes
- ✓ Medium-heavy bottom cymbal provides stability and definition
- ✓ Exceptional for studio and touring situations where hi-hat changes aren't practical
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Sick Hat Bottom as a regular crash cymbal?
No. The Sick Hat Bottom is specifically designed as the bottom cymbal of a hi-hat pair. It requires the perforated top cymbal to function as intended. It is not a standalone crash cymbal.
Which is better for beginners?
The AA Medium Crash is marked for intermediate and advanced players. The Sick Hat Bottom is also not ideal for beginners. Neither product is recommended for learning drummers—both require intermediate or advanced technique to exploit their specialized designs.
What's the key tonal difference between these two cymbals?
The AA Medium Crash delivers a bright, full-bodied attack with cutting projection and minimal wash—designed for presence and punch. The Sick Hat Bottom produces a thin, dry, white-noise-like response with zero airlock—designed for controlled articulation and precision.
Are both B20 bronze?
Yes. Both the AA Medium Crash and the Sick Hat Bottom are constructed from B20 bronze alloy, which is the standard for SABIAN's mid-tier AA series.