What's the difference between this and a traditional China cymbal?

The Hammertone has a heavier construction, flatter lip profile, and lined bell design that make it function more like a hybrid China-ride—delivering articulate definition and controlled attack rather than loose, washy trash. Its partially lathed surface retains some bark texture for a darker, more nuanced tone compared to polished Chinas.

Is this cymbal suitable for jazz and small group playing?

Yes. It was designed in collaboration with jazz veteran Jeff Hamilton specifically for ensemble settings where you need a cymbal that cuts through without excessive wash, making it equally effective for supporting ride figures and dynamic comping.

How does the 22-inch size and 2035-gram weight affect playability?

The heavier weight and 22-inch diameter give it a more focused, articulate response under moderate to firm strikes, with warm spread and complex overtones. This makes it responsive and predictable in a band setting rather than loose or uncontrolled.

What genres is this cymbal best suited for?

It excels in jazz, studio sessions, and live performance contexts. It is not recommended for metal or punk styles, where looser, louder wash and crash characteristics are typically preferred.

Can this cymbal work as both a ride and effect cymbal?

Yes. Its design strikes a balance between the two—it functions as a China ride with controlled attack and warm spread while delivering enough trash and overtone character to add textural complexity to comping and dynamic playing.

SABIAN 22" Hammertone Chinese

This 22" Hammertone Chinese sits right in the sweet spot between a traditional effects China and a ride—delivering controlled attack with warm spread that cuts through ensemble playing without getting lost in wash. Built heavier than stock China cymbals and voiced by jazz powerhouse Jeff Hamilton, it gives you the complex, musical response and trash character you need for supporting ride figures and adding textural depth to your comping.

Design & Construction

The lined bell and flatter lip profile break from typical Chinese cymbal geometry to give you sharper articulation when you need it. The partially lathed surface—which keeps its natural "bark" texture instead of a polished mirror finish—darkens the overall voice and locks in the versatility you get from a true China ride. This finishing choice pays dividends on the bandstand.

Tone & Performance Character

Heavier than your standard China cymbal, this disc responds predictably under moderate to firm strikes, pairing warm spread with articulate definition. That balance works equally well driving ride figures as it does for textural comping and dynamic play—you get genuine complexity without needing to finesse the touch.

Key Features

22-inch diameter
2035 grams weight (standard production model)
Lined bell design
Partially lathed surface finish with retained bark texture
Flatter lip profile than traditional Chinese cymbals
Heavier than typical China cymbals
Designed in collaboration with jazz artist Jeff Hamilton
Functions as China ride with controlled attack and warm spread
Delivers tasty level of trash and overtone character
SABIAN 2-year warranty protection

The result of meticulous craftmanship and factory collaboration with Jeff Hamilton, this Hammertone Chinese delivers both musical complexity and reliable articulation for drummers who refuse to compromise on the bandstand.

Condition	New
Cymbal Size	22"
Cymbal Type	Effects
Country of Manufacture	Canada