SABIAN 22" Hammertone Chinese

SABIAN 22" Hammertone Chinese

This 22" Hammertone Chinese delivers a distinctive blend of controlled attack and warm spread that sits between a traditional effects China and a ride cymbal. Designed in collaboration with jazz veteran Jeff Hamilton, the cymbal's heftier construction and flatter lip profile produce a complex, musical response with enough trash and overtone character to cut through ensemble playing without excessive wash.

Design & Construction

The lined bell and flatter lip profile depart from conventional Chinese cymbal geometry, creating a more focused articulation. The partially lathed surface—intentionally retaining some "bark" texture rather than polishing to a mirror finish—contributes to the cymbal's darker, more nuanced tonal palette and reinforces its suitability as a China ride rather than a pure effect cymbal.

Tone & Performance Character

The heavier construction than typical China cymbals yields a cymbal that responds predictably under moderate to firm strikes, delivering warm spread paired with articulate definition. This balance makes it equally effective for supporting ride figures as for adding textural trash and complexity to comping and dynamic playing.

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

This Hammertone Chinese represents the result of meticulous craftmanship and multiple factory collaborations with Jeff Hamilton, offering an uncompromising cymbal for musicians who demand both musical complexity and reliable articulation.