AB11 vs XSR1302-1B — Compare
Sabian 11" Alu Bell vs SABIAN 13" XSR Hat Top Brilliant Finish
The Sabian 11" Alu Bell is a hand percussion instrument designed for orchestral and chamber contexts, while the SABIAN 13" XSR Hat Top is a hi-hat cymbal for drum kit use in live and studio settings. Choose the Alu Bell if you play melodic percussion or need a compact hand instrument; choose the XSR Hat if you're a drummer needing cutting hi-hat definition.
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Specs side by side
| Sabian 11" Alu Bell | SABIAN 13" XSR Hat Top Brilliant Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $163.59 | $163.59 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Effects | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 11" | 13" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 11" Alu Bell
- ✓ Compact 11" size minimizes physical effort and suits studio and chamber settings
- ✓ Sand-cast aluminum construction creates distinctive soft, bright tone with strong projection
- ✓ Immediate response to light strikers and hand techniques ideal for nuanced playing
Why choose SABIAN 13" XSR Hat Top Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Standard 13" hi-hat size fits any drum kit setup
- ✓ Pure B20 Bronze with brilliant finish delivers cutting, articulate response in loud mixed environments
- ✓ Medium-top/heavy-bottom pairing maintains definition and presence at high volumes
Frequently asked questions
Are these two instruments compatible with the same player or kit?
No. The Alu Bell is a standalone hand percussion instrument played independently or in ensembles. The XSR Hat Top is a hi-hat cymbal that mounts on a drum kit's hi-hat stand and is played with drum sticks.
Which is better for beginners?
Both are listed for beginner through professional skill levels. The Alu Bell suits beginners interested in hand percussion or orchestral playing, while the XSR Hat suits beginners learning drum kit in mixed live and studio environments.
What are the key material and construction differences?
The Alu Bell uses sand-cast aluminum with a rough finish for its unique tone. The XSR Hat Top uses pure B20 Bronze (80% copper, 20% tin) with a brilliant finish and hammered construction for cutting projection in loud settings.
Which handles loud, high-volume playing better?
The XSR Hat Top is engineered specifically for high-volume projection with its heavy bottom cymbal and medium-weight top profile. The Alu Bell is designed for orchestral and chamber clarity and is not recommended for loud rock or heavy metal contexts.