41706X vs AB11 — Compare
Sabian 17" B8X Thin Crash vs Sabian 11" Alu Bell
The Sabian 17" B8X Thin Crash is a drum cymbal designed for rock, pop, and fusion drummers who need cutting articulation in a full kit, while the Sabian 11" Alu Bell is a hand-struck percussion instrument suited for orchestral and chamber contexts. They serve completely different musical purposes and player types.
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 17" B8X Thin Crash | Sabian 11" Alu Bell | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149.21 | $149.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Effects |
| Cymbal Size | 17" | 11" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 17" B8X Thin Crash
- ✓ B8 bronze construction offers genuine cymbal alloy at budget price
- ✓ Quick decay and crisp attack cut through dense mixes in rock and pop
- ✓ 17" diameter provides full cymbal crash functionality for drum kits
- ✓ Responsive across wide dynamic range, suitable for touring and studio
Why choose Sabian 11" Alu Bell
- ✓ Lightweight aluminum construction requires minimal physical effort
- ✓ Sustaining, articulate tone ideal for orchestral and chamber applications
- ✓ Compact 11" size makes it portable and accessible for studio sessions
- ✓ Sand-cast manufacturing creates unique sonic character for classical contexts
Frequently asked questions
Are these products both cymbals for drum kits?
No. The B8X Thin Crash is a cymbal designed to be mounted on a drum kit. The Alu Bell is a hand-struck percussion instrument held and struck by hand, similar to orchestral hand bells, not a mounted cymbal.
Which one works better for rock and metal music?
The B8X Thin Crash is built for rock, pop, and fusion with its bright, cutting tone. The Alu Bell is explicitly noted as not ideal for heavy metal or loud rock ensembles, making it unsuitable for those genres.
What's the main tonal difference?
The B8X produces a bright, quick-decay crash with minimal sustain for tight articulation. The Alu Bell delivers a soft, bright, sustaining tone designed for clarity in classical and chamber contexts.
Which is better for beginners?
Both are suitable for beginners at their respective skill levels. The B8X bridges affordability and performance for drum kit players of all levels. The Alu Bell is accessible to beginners due to its lightweight construction and responsive design for hand-struck play.