20816 vs 41823X — Compare
Sabian 8" AA China Splash vs SABIAN 18" B8X Suspended
The Sabian 8" AA China Splash is a compact, high-end accent cymbal built from B20 bronze for crisp, punchy articulation in rock and metal, while the SABIAN 18" B8X Suspended is a mid-sized, entry-level suspended cymbal made from B8 alloy offering versatile brightness across jazz, pop, and rock. Choose the China Splash if you need cutting accents for aggressive genres; choose the B8X Suspended if you want a primary crash cymbal with articulate control across multiple styles.
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 8" AA China Splash | SABIAN 18" B8X Suspended | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169.99 | $171.79 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Splash | Suspended |
| Cymbal Size | 8" | 18" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 8" AA China Splash
- ✓ B20 bronze construction with hand-hammering for superior tone quality and durability
- ✓ Inverted bow design engineered for tight, staccato slaps with cutting edge
- ✓ Extra-thin weight keeps attack snappy and responsive
- ✓ Available in Brilliant or Traditional finish for tonal customization
Why choose SABIAN 18" B8X Suspended
- ✓ 18-inch size provides presence suitable as primary crash cymbal
- ✓ B8 alloy offers warm undertones with modern brightness across multiple genres
- ✓ Low-profile bow and thin construction enable fast response and quick decay
- ✓ Beginner and intermediate-friendly with accessible price and forgiving playability
Frequently asked questions
Which cymbal is better for jazz?
The 18" B8X Suspended is designed for jazz and offers the bright, controlled articulation and minimal sustain jazz requires. The 8" AA China Splash is explicitly noted as not ideal for jazz and serves as an accent cymbal for aggressive genres.
What's the material difference and does it matter?
The AA China Splash uses B20 bronze (premium, hand-hammered) while the B8X Suspended uses B8 alloy (entry-to-intermediate, machine-made). B20 delivers more complex tone and durability but costs more; B8 is warmer, more forgiving, and budget-friendly for developing drummers.
Can I use the 8" China Splash as my main crash?
No. At 8 inches, the AA China Splash is an accent/splash cymbal designed for quick articulation, not sustained crashes. The 18" B8X Suspended is sized and voiced as a primary crash cymbal for regular use.
Which suits a beginner better?
The 18" B8X Suspended is explicitly designed for beginners and intermediates with forgiving playability and lower price. The 8" AA China Splash requires intermediate to professional skill and serves a specialized accent role in an established kit.