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Sabian 20" Medium Ride AAX vs Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
The Sabian 20" Medium Ride AAX is a ride cymbal designed for clarity and stick articulation in contemporary styles, while the Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish is a crash cymbal engineered for bright attacks and quick decay in explosive settings. Choose the Ride if you need a primary ride with focused tonality; choose the Crash if you need a dedicated crash voice for accents and dynamic hits.
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Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
Specs side by side
| Sabian 20" Medium Ride AAX | Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $424.99 | $424.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Ride | Crash |
| Cymbal Size | 20" | 20" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 20" Medium Ride AAX
- ✓ B20 Bronze alloy delivers warmer, more refined tone than B8
- ✓ Smaller raw bell design creates focused, defined tonality ideal for ride applications
- ✓ Minimal wash and responsive playing surface reward controlled technique
- ✓ Equally suited to studio and touring demands
Why choose Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
- ✓ B8 Bronze is more affordable than B20 while still delivering projection
- ✓ Medium-thin weight ensures quick, explosive response perfect for crash duties
- ✓ Brilliant finish adds visual appeal and vibrant aesthetic
- ✓ Dual-lathing process provides balanced decay without excessive sustain
Frequently asked questions
Can I use either cymbal as an all-purpose crash-ride?
The Ride AAX is optimized for ride articulation and focused tonality, not for crash dynamics. The X-Plosion Crash is designed specifically for crash attacks and decay, not continuous ride playing. Each excels in its intended role.
What's the material difference and how does it affect tone?
The Ride uses B20 Bronze (copper, tin, and silver alloy), which produces a brighter, more complex tone with greater refinement. The Crash uses B8 bronze, which is simpler and more affordable while still delivering cutting projection suitable for crash applications.
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
Both work well in metal and hard rock. The Ride AAX excels as your primary ride voice for cutting through dense mixes with articulation. The X-Plosion Crash complements a kit by providing explosive, quick-decaying crashes for dynamic accents.
Are these suitable for beginners?
Both are classified for intermediate, advanced, and professional skill levels. They reward controlled technique and proper striking; beginners may find them less forgiving than heavier, warmer cymbals designed for developing players.