A1855-1 vs H21R — Compare
SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Heavy Single vs SABIAN 21" HH HAMMERTONE RIDE
The Artisan Sym 18" is a focused, articulate single cymbal built for classical and orchestral precision, while the HH Hammertone 21" is a larger, more versatile ride-crash hybrid designed for big band and ensemble cut. Choose the Artisan for chamber or audition work requiring clarity; choose the HH for live big band settings where one cymbal must do multiple jobs.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Heavy Single | SABIAN 21" HH HAMMERTONE RIDE | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $639.99 | $644.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Suspended | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 18" | 21" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 18" Artisan Sym Medium Heavy Single
- ✓ Hand-crafted by SABIAN master artisans with high-density hammering for consistent quality
- ✓ 18" size offers focused, centered projection with minimal wash—ideal for classical and audition contexts
- ✓ Articulate across all dynamic ranges, maintaining clarity in soft passages and ensemble work
- ✓ Single cymbal format allows targeted replacement or custom setup configuration
Why choose SABIAN 21" HH HAMMERTONE RIDE
- ✓ 21" diameter delivers commanding presence and high projection for large ensemble cutting power
- ✓ Dual-purpose ride-crash design reduces the need for separate cymbals in big band contexts
- ✓ High-profile bow with exaggerated curvature produces increased volume and crash-like versatility
- ✓ Warm spread with controlled stick definition balances musicality and articulate response under heavy playing
Frequently asked questions
Which cymbal is better for jazz?
Both suit jazz but in different contexts. The 18" Artisan Sym excels in smaller jazz combos and auditions where articulation and focus matter; the 21" HH Hammertone is designed for big band and larger ensembles where projection and crash versatility are priorities.
What's the main difference in size and projection?
The Artisan Sym is 18 inches with centered, focused projection ideal for orchestral clarity. The HH Hammertone is 21 inches with commanding high projection designed to cut through larger ensemble textures.
Can either serve as a standalone cymbal or must they be paired?
The Artisan Sym is sold as a single, allowing standalone use or replacement in an existing pair. The HH Hammertone 21" is a ride designed to function alone as both ride and crash, eliminating the need for a separate crash in big band setups.
Which has more wash or sustain?
The Artisan Sym specifically delivers minimal washy sustain for clarity and articulation. The HH Hammertone produces a warm spread with controlled stick definition, giving it more wash but retained articulation suited to ensemble blending.