Sabian 21" AAX Memphis Ride
Description
Sabian 21" AAX Memphis Ride
The 21" AAX Memphis Ride sits perfectly in your kit as a workhorse that delivers bright, cutting articulation with excellent stick definition and a responsive feel that locks naturally into your pocket. Its medium-thin weight and thinner edge profile make it exceptionally playable for shoulder crashes and intricate riding patterns—you can push hard without fatigue creeping in on long sets. This cymbal bridges the gap between traditional ride function and modern versatility, earning respect from drummers who demand clarity without sacrificing musicality.
Tone & Character
The small, part-lathed bell generates a high-pitched accent that cuts through densely arranged music, while the raw surface with single-line lathing on top produces a crisp, articulate wash. The completely lathed bottom contributes to focused projection and definition, making this ride equally effective for tight jazz settings and contemporary styles where clarity is non-negotiable.
Playability & Response
At approximately 2562g (median weight) with a medium-thin thickness, this cymbal responds immediately to stick strikes without demanding excessive force. The thinner edge profile facilitates effortless shoulder crashing and allows for nuanced dynamic control across the cymbal's surface, making extended sessions comfortable and expressive.
Key Features
- Size: 21 inches
- Series: AAX
- Material: B20 bronze
- Weight range: 2397g–2664g (median: 2562g)
- Thickness: Medium-thin
- Surface finish: Raw surface with single-line lathing on top
- Bottom surface: Completely lathed
- Bell: Small, part-lathed, high-pitched
- Edge profile: Thinner toward edge for easy shoulder crashing
- Production: 2009 onwards
The AAX Memphis Ride combines traditional B20 craftsmanship with modern design thinking, delivering articulate stick response and versatile sonic range that adapts to contemporary and classic contexts alike.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 21" |
| Cymbal Type | Ride |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 21" AAX Memphis Ride is a bright, cutting ride cymbal built for drummers who need clarity and stick definition without sacrificing musicality. Its medium-thin weight and responsive feel make it equally at home in tight jazz settings or contemporary rock, with a thinner edge profile that lets you crash cleanly on the shoulder without fatigue during long sets. Choose this if you want a versatile ride that cuts through densely arranged music while remaining playable and expressive across dynamic playing.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Heavy Metal
- – Thrash Metal
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the B-Stock condition of this cymbal?
Not applicable—this listing does not indicate B-Stock status. The cymbal is in standard new condition as manufactured.
Is this ride suitable for heavy metal or thrash metal?
No, this ride is not designed for heavy metal or thrash metal styles. Its bright, articulate character and medium-thin weight are optimized for jazz, rock, studio sessions, and live performance where clarity and stick definition are priorities.
How does the 21" size and weight compare to other rides?
The 21" AAX Memphis is medium-thin at approximately 2562g (median weight), making it lighter and more responsive than heavier rides. This weight range and thinner edge profile make it exceptionally playable for extended sessions and intricate riding patterns without fatigue.
What makes the stick response and feel different from the bell to the edge?
The small, part-lathed bell generates a high-pitched accent that cuts through arrangements, while the completely lathed bottom provides focused projection. The thinner edge profile facilitates effortless shoulder crashing and allows nuanced dynamic control, responding immediately to stick strikes without demanding excessive force.
What genres and playing contexts is this ride best suited for?
This ride excels in jazz, rock, studio sessions, and live performance where clarity and articulation are essential. Its versatile design bridges traditional ride function with modern sonic demands, adapting equally well to tight jazz settings and contemporary styles.