A1855/1 vs A1856/1 — Compare
SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Heavy Single vs SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Light Single
The Medium Heavy offers a focused, centered sound with minimal washy sustain, ideal for articulate classical and jazz playing, while the Medium Light produces a splashier character with quicker articulation and shorter sustain, better suited to orchestral auditions and marching applications. Choose Medium Heavy for rhythmic control and projection; choose Medium Light for versatility across soft and loud dynamics with more wash.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Heavy Single | SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Light Single | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $639.99 | $639.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Suspended | Suspended |
| Cymbal Size | 18" | 18" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Heavy Single
- ✓ Focused, centered tone with excellent projection for classical and jazz
- ✓ Minimal washy sustain provides clarity in rhythmic passages
- ✓ Responsive control across soft to loud dynamics without losing definition
- ✓ Hand-crafted by master artisans with traditional high-density hammering
Why choose SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Light Single
- ✓ Splashier character with quicker articulation across broad dynamic range
- ✓ Shorter sustain makes it versatile for successive crashes and soft playing
- ✓ Ideal for orchestral auditions and marching arts applications
- ✓ Lighter weight reduces fatigue during extended performance sessions
Frequently asked questions
What is the main tonal difference between these two?
The Medium Heavy produces a focused, centered tone with minimal washy sustain and excellent projection, while the Medium Light has a splashier quality with quicker articulation and shorter sustain. Medium Heavy suits rhythmic passages; Medium Light suits broader dynamic range and successive crashes.
Which is better for orchestral auditions?
The Medium Light is specifically noted as ideal for orchestral auditions and explicitly designed to bridge traditional orchestral sound with modern performance demands. The Medium Heavy is better for sustained ensemble playing and orchestral excerpts requiring focused articulation.
Are both cymbals hand-crafted?
Yes, both are individually hand-hammered and shaped by master SABIAN artisans using traditional high-density hand hammering combined with modern jumbo-peen dimpling. The craftsmanship and build quality are equivalent; the difference is weight classification and resulting tone character.
Which cymbal has longer sustain?
The Medium Heavy has excellent projection with minimal washy sustain, keeping the sound focused. The Medium Light has shorter sustain overall, making it quicker to articulate and better for rapid successive playing.