21809 vs 218SHN-2 — Compare
Sabian 18" AA Rock Crash vs SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Bottom
The AA Rock Crash is a single crash cymbal designed for explosive, cutting attacks in rock and funk; the AA Sick Hat Bottom is one half of a hi-hat pair built for controlled, dry articulation in live and studio work. Choose the crash if you need a dedicated crash voice for high-energy genres, and choose the Sick Hat Bottom if you're building or upgrading a hi-hat pair that requires precision and adaptability.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| Sabian 18" AA Rock 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 Rock Crash
- ✓ Aggressive bright attack cuts through dense rock and funk mixes
- ✓ Medium-heavy B20 bronze construction delivers warm complexity and durability
- ✓ Full tone with medium decay ideal for live performance command
Why choose SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Bottom
- ✓ Thin, dry response offers controllable white-noise effect for studio precision
- ✓ Flippable design (solid bottom, perforated top) provides two distinct voices from one pair
- ✓ Zero airlock and defined articulation perfect for tight, articulate hi-hat work
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Sick Hat Bottom as a standalone crash?
No. The Sick Hat Bottom is one cymbal from a hi-hat pair and is designed to work paired with a perforated top cymbal on a hi-hat stand. It cannot replicate the crash cymbal's explosive attack or tone when used alone.
Which is better for live rock performance?
The AA Rock Crash is purpose-built for live rock with an aggressive, penetrating attack that cuts through loud mixes. The Sick Hat Bottom is for hi-hat articulation in live settings where tight, controlled cymbal definition matters more than crash impact.
What's the key difference in tone between these two?
The AA Rock Crash delivers a full, bright tone with aggressive attack and medium decay. The Sick Hat Bottom is thin, dry, and controllable—functioning as a white-noise effect with virtually no airlock, designed for articulation rather than projection.
Are both suitable for intermediate players?
Yes, both are rated for intermediate skill level and above. The AA Rock Crash works well as a dedicated crash for intermediate drummers moving into rock and funk. The Sick Hat Bottom requires intermediate technique to appreciate its precision and flippable design advantages in studio or touring contexts.