11792XN vs 22114 — Compare
Sabian 17" HHX X-Treme Crash vs Sabian 21" AA Rock Ride
The HHX X-Treme is a 17" dark crash built for metal and hard rock's dense mixes, while the AA Rock Ride is a 21" bright ride designed as a workhorse for rock, funk, and jazz. Choose the crash if you need aggressive darkness and fast decay; choose the ride if you want a versatile, punchy cymbal that sustains and cuts across multiple genres.
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
| Sabian 17" HHX X-Treme Crash | 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-Treme Crash
- ✓ Dark, aggressive tone cuts through without sounding brittle
- ✓ Rapid decay keeps dense mixes from getting muddy
- ✓ Thin weight allows responsive stick articulation
- ✓ Specialized HHX Tone Projection design for modern heavy music
Why choose Sabian 21" AA Rock Ride
- ✓ Larger 21" size and heavy weight deliver powerful projection
- ✓ Bright, full-bodied character works across rock, funk, blues, and jazz
- ✓ Big bell and sustained resonance ideal for ride patterns
- ✓ Proven workhorse design in continuous production since 1984
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these cymbals together in one kit?
Yes—they serve different roles. The HHX X-Treme is a crash for accents and hits, while the AA Rock Ride is for ride patterns and sustained playing. Many drummers use both, especially in rock and metal setups.
Which is better for jazz?
The AA Rock Ride is listed as suitable for jazz with its bright vintage character and sustained resonance. The HHX X-Treme is not recommended for jazz because its aggressive bite and rapid decay don't suit the genre's softer dynamics and articulation needs.
How do their sizes and weights affect playability?
The HHX X-Treme at 17" and thin weight is responsive and nimble, ideal for fast, articulate playing in high-volume settings. The AA Rock Ride at 21" and heavy weight (3271g median) requires more commitment but delivers louder, sustained tones and better projection in medium to high-volume contexts.
What's the difference between their materials and construction?
Both use B20 bronze. The HHX X-Treme employs hand hammering and hand-guided machine techniques with a large raw bell for projection. The AA Rock Ride's heavy mass and traditional construction make it a durable workhorse built for aggressive play since 1984.