21401XC-2B vs 21402XL-1 — Compare
SABIAN 14" AAX Thin Hat Bottom Brilliant Finish vs SABIAN 14" AAX X-Celerator Hat Top
The AAX Thin Hat Bottom is a single bottom cymbal for pairing with an existing top, while the AAX X-Celerator Hat Top is a single top cymbal for pairing with an existing bottom. Choose the Bottom if you need to replace or upgrade just the lower cymbal; choose the Top if your top needs upgrading.
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SABIAN 14" AAX Thin Hat Bottom Brilliant Finish
Specs side by side
| SABIAN 14" AAX Thin Hat Bottom Brilliant Finish | SABIAN 14" AAX X-Celerator Hat Top | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $254.99 | $254.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 14" | 14" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 14" AAX Thin Hat Bottom Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Low-weight thin profile delivers exceptional responsiveness to light touch
- ✓ Quick decay and precise stick definition for modern styles
- ✓ Smaller bell design creates the crisp, contemporary voice AAX series is known for
Why choose SABIAN 14" AAX X-Celerator Hat Top
- ✓ Air Wave rippled design eliminates airlock for super-clean articulation
- ✓ Medium weight (approximately 1077g) balances responsiveness with projection
- ✓ Larger, rounder peen hammering visible on surface contributes to focused, cutting character
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these cymbals together as a matching pair?
These are designed as individual cymbal components, not sold as a pre-matched pair. You would need to purchase both separately. Each is engineered to pair with a quality partner cymbal from the AAX series for a cohesive hi-hat voice.
What's the key difference between the Bottom's thin profile and the Top's medium weight?
The thin bottom is extremely responsive and quick-decaying with minimal material, ideal for light articulation. The medium-weight top provides more projection and sustain while maintaining crispness, balancing responsiveness with volume projection. Together they create definition without the bottom being overpowered.
Are these suitable for the same musical styles?
Yes—both are designed for rock, metal, funk, and studio/live use. Both excel in modern bright applications but are not ideal for jazz or traditional styles. The shared AAX sonic character ensures they sit well in the same musical contexts.
What does the Air Wave ripple design on the Top do?
The Air Wave ripples on the bottom of the top cymbal allow air to escape freely between the hi-hat cymbals, eliminating trapped air pockets. This produces cleaner stick definition and tighter control at all dynamic levels compared to flat designs.