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Sabian 17" HHX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish vs Sabian 21" AA Rock Ride
The HHX X-Plosion is a compact 17" crash optimized for cutting through dense mixes in hard rock and metal, while the AA Rock Ride is a heavy 21" ride built for sustained definition and aggressive playing across rock, funk, and jazz. Choose the HHX for cymbal crashes in heavy styles; choose the AA Rock Ride if you need a primary ride cymbal for versatile ensemble playing.
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Sabian 17" HHX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
Specs side by side
| Sabian 17" HHX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish | Sabian 21" AA Rock Ride | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $429.99 | $439.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 17" | 21" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 17" HHX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Compact 17" size ideal for crash-focused setups in metal and hard rock
- ✓ Fast decay and medium-thin weight enable crisp, articulate responses to controlled and explosive hits
- ✓ Dark, complex tone despite brilliant finish prevents thin, one-dimensional sound
- ✓ Superior cut and projection in full-band contexts with dense arrangements
Why choose Sabian 21" AA Rock Ride
- ✓ Heavy 21" ride cymbal with sustained resonance and full-bodied stick definition for all-purpose use
- ✓ Big, bright bell and aggressive punch cut through high-volume live settings
- ✓ Versatile across rock, funk, blues, and jazz genres since 1984
- ✓ B20 bronze construction and substantial 3271g weight ensure durability and maximum projection
Frequently asked questions
Are these cymbals designed for the same playing style?
No. The HHX X-Plosion is a crash cymbal (17" diameter, fast decay) engineered for accent and definition in dense mixes, particularly in hard rock and metal. The AA Rock Ride is a ride cymbal (21" diameter, heavy weight) built as a primary cymbal for sustained rhythmic definition and cutting presence across rock, funk, blues, and jazz.
Which cymbal is better for jazz?
The AA Rock Ride is suitable for jazz and explicitly listed as one of its intended genres; the HHX X-Plosion is not recommended for jazz. The AA's sustained resonance and full-bodied character work in jazz comping and ride patterns.
What is the main difference in weight and response?
The HHX X-Plosion is medium-thin (17") with fast decay and crisp response, while the AA Rock Ride is heavy (3271g median, 21") with sustained resonance and authoritative stick definition. The HHX responds quickly to nuanced hits; the AA projects aggressively in high-volume settings.
Do both cymbals work in hard rock and metal?
The HHX X-Plosion is specifically optimized for hard rock and metal with cutting clarity and fast decay. The AA Rock Ride is not listed as suitable for these genres and is better suited to rock, funk, blues, and jazz.