A1806 vs A1856-1 — Compare
Sabian 18" Artisan Crash vs SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Light Single
The Artisan Crash is a dark, complex crash cymbal engineered for rock, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop with sustained harmonic content; the Artisan Sym Medium Light is a brighter, quicker-responding cymbal designed for orchestral, classical, and chamber music contexts. Choose the Crash if you play contemporary genres requiring expressive crash articulation; choose the Sym if you need fast, clear definition for orchestral or classical work.
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Specs side by side
| Sabian 18" Artisan Crash | SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Light Single | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $639.99 | $639.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Suspended |
| Cymbal Size | 18" | 18" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 18" Artisan Crash
- ✓ Complex harmonic sustain and full-bodied tone ideal for rock, jazz, and hip-hop
- ✓ Unlathed bell design provides raw character and cutting clarity
- ✓ Thin weight offers dynamic control with fast response
Why choose SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Light Single
- ✓ Shorter sustain and splashy character perfect for orchestral excerpts and auditions
- ✓ Medium-light weight delivers quick response without sacrificing tonal warmth
- ✓ Modern jumbo-peen dimpling combined with traditional hand-hammering ensures consistency across dynamics
Frequently asked questions
What's the main tonal difference between these two cymbals?
The Artisan Crash has a darker, more complex tone with sustained harmonic content suited to contemporary genres. The Artisan Sym Medium Light is brighter with a splashier character and shorter sustain designed for orchestral clarity and definition across dynamics.
Which cymbal is better for classical music or auditions?
The Artisan Sym Medium Light is specifically engineered for orchestral excerpts, auditions, classical percussion, and chamber music, with quick response and shorter sustain that maintains clarity across soft and loud playing.
Can either of these cymbals work outside their recommended genres?
The Artisan Crash is not ideal for extreme metal or high-volume punk. The Artisan Sym Medium Light is not ideal for heavy metal or rock drumming. Both are genre-specific instruments optimized for their intended musical contexts.
What construction techniques do both cymbals share?
Both use B20 alloy and high-density hand-hammering by master SABIAN artisans. The key difference is the Artisan Crash features an unlathed bell design for rawness, while the Artisan Sym Medium Light adds modern jumbo-peen dimpling on the underside for orchestral consistency.