120XACN vs A1655-1 — Compare
20" HHX COMPLEX AERO CRASH vs SABIAN 16" Artisan Sym Meduim Heavy Single
The HHX Complex Aero is a 20" crash cymbal for rock, jazz, and studio work with fast decay and cutting clarity, while the Artisan Sym is a 16" hand cymbal for orchestral and classical ensemble playing with longer sustain and warm darkness. Choose the HHX for dynamic contemporary music; choose the Artisan for soft classical and chamber contexts.
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Specs side by side
| 20" HHX COMPLEX AERO CRASH | SABIAN 16" Artisan Sym Meduim Heavy Single | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $559.99 | $544.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Suspended |
| Cymbal Size | 20" | 16" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose 20" HHX COMPLEX AERO CRASH
- ✓ 20" size cuts through in live and studio mixes with immediate projection
- ✓ Fast decay and responsive feel ideal for rock, jazz, and progressive styles
- ✓ Aero hole design boosts highs while maintaining complex, dark lows
- ✓ Thin, loose construction enables dynamic playing across multiple settings
Why choose SABIAN 16" Artisan Sym Meduim Heavy Single
- ✓ Hand-crafted by master artisans using traditional high-density hammering and modern dimpling
- ✓ 16" size and medium-heavy weight deliver dark tone with longer sustain
- ✓ Exceptional clarity and warmth at soft to moderate dynamic levels
- ✓ Purpose-built for orchestral, chamber, and classical ensemble playing
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for a beginner?
Neither is ideal for beginners. The HHX Complex Aero is rated intermediate/advanced and explicitly not recommended for practice. The Artisan Sym is professional-grade, hand-crafted, and designed for advanced ensemble work. Both require developed technique to voice properly.
Can I use the Artisan Sym in a rock or metal band?
Not recommended. The Artisan Sym is explicitly marked not ideal for rock or metal and is designed for low-volume classical contexts. The HHX Complex Aero is built for rock and high-energy live settings and would be far more suitable.
What's the main size and tone difference?
The HHX Complex Aero is a 20" crash with fast decay, boosted highs, and crisp cutting power for contemporary music. The Artisan Sym is a 16" hand cymbal with longer sustain, dark warmth, and focused articulation for classical contexts. The HHX is designed to project and cut; the Artisan is designed for nuanced control in ensemble balance.
Which has more complex tonal character?
Both offer sophisticated sound for their intended use. The HHX Complex Aero balances cutting clarity with dark lows and complex character through its B20 bronze and combination hammering. The Artisan Sym achieves dark, warm richness through traditional high-density hammering and modern dimpling, but its voice is more focused and less bright overall.