11502XBCN-2 vs 21816XB — Compare
15" HHX COMPLEX MEDIUM BIG CUP HAT BOTTOM vs Sabian 18" AAX Chinese Brilliant Finish
The HHX Complex is a 15" hi-hat bottom for jazz and studio work with dark, complex tones and vintage character, while the AAX Chinese is an 18" crash/ride cymbal built for metal and hard rock with a brash, cutting modern-bright attack. Choose the HHX for refined ensemble playing; choose the AAX for aggressive, cutting-through-the-mix performance.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Specs side by side
| 15" HHX COMPLEX MEDIUM BIG CUP HAT BOTTOM | Sabian 18" AAX Chinese Brilliant Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $369.99 | $374.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats | Effects |
| Cymbal Size | 15" | 18" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose 15" HHX COMPLEX MEDIUM BIG CUP HAT BOTTOM
- ✓ Dark, complex tone with vintage-inspired character ideal for jazz and funk
- ✓ Oversized cup design delivers 15-inch fullness with responsive 14-inch feel
- ✓ Hi-hat bottom specifically engineered for articulate, sweet hi-hat definition
- ✓ Heavy weight provides strong stick definition and sustain
Why choose Sabian 18" AAX Chinese Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Massive brash attack with biting, trashy character cuts through any mix
- ✓ Modern Bright response with crisp, clear articulation suits aggressive styles
- ✓ Thin weight enables quick response and explosive articulation
- ✓ 18-inch size delivers presence and power for metal, punk, and hard rock
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the AAX Chinese as a hi-hat?
No. The AAX Chinese is an 18" crash cymbal with a flanged lip, designed for crash and ride applications. The HHX Complex is a dedicated 15" hi-hat bottom that pairs with a matching top cymbal.
Which is better for a beginner?
Both require intermediate-to-professional skill level. The HHX Complex is more forgiving in ensemble contexts; the AAX Chinese demands confident technique to control its brash character. Your music style should determine choice rather than skill level.
How do the tones differ?
The HHX Complex produces dark, complex, vintage-inspired tones with enhanced highs and rich lows—designed for subtlety and musicality. The AAX Chinese generates modern bright, biting, trashy tones with penetrating definition—designed for aggression and cutting power.
Are these both B20 bronze?
Yes, both are constructed from B20 bronze alloy. The difference lies in their series (HHX versus AAX), weight classification (heavy versus thin), and finish (raw versus brilliant polished), which create their distinctly different tonal characters.