11402XCN/1 vs 21706XCB — Compare
SABIAN 14" HHX Complex Medium Hat Top vs SABIAN 17" Thin Crash AAX Brilliant Finish
The HHX Complex is a closed hi-hat top designed for jazz, funk, and contemporary styles with dark, controlled tones, while the AAX Crash is a standalone crash cymbal built for rock, metal, and fusion with bright, cutting attack. Choose the hi-hat top if you need responsive foot cymbal work; choose the crash if you need a dedicated crash voice.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 14" HHX Complex Medium Hat Top | SABIAN 17" Thin Crash AAX Brilliant Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $334.99 | $334.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats | Crash |
| Cymbal Size | 14" | 17" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 14" HHX Complex Medium Hat Top
- ✓ Dark, controlled cut when closed with solid foot definition
- ✓ Sizzling, fat tone when open—versatile across jazz, funk, rock, and contemporary
- ✓ B20 bronze with hybrid HH/HHX hammering for tonal complexity and consistency
- ✓ Responsive dynamics across fully closed to fully open positions
Why choose SABIAN 17" Thin Crash AAX Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Bright, cutting attack that cuts through dense mixes instantly
- ✓ Fast decay and minimal wash—articulate stick definition without muddiness
- ✓ Thin profile with semi-lathed design responds easily to subtle dynamics
- ✓ Focused modern voice ideal for rock, metal, fusion, and progressive genres
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these cymbals together?
No. The HHX Complex is a hi-hat top cymbal that requires a heavy bottom cymbal and a hi-hat stand. The AAX Crash is a standalone crash designed for cymbal stands. They serve different functions in a kit.
Which is better for jazz?
The HHX Complex is specifically voiced for jazz, delivering dark cut when closed and fat tones when open. The AAX Crash's bright, cutting attack and minimal wash are not ideal for traditional jazz aesthetics.
What is the weight difference and why does it matter?
The HHX Complex top weighs 1043 grams and pairs with a heavy bottom for controlled response. The AAX Crash uses a thin profile with semi-lathed construction for fast response and minimal weight, creating different playing dynamics suited to different genres.
Which cymbal has more projection?
The AAX Crash is designed for cutting through dense mixes with bright attack and projection. The HHX Complex hi-hat top produces definition and presence but functions as a closed/open pedal cymbal in a hi-hat setup, not as a standalone projection tool.