21402/2 vs 21403/1 — Compare
SABIAN 14" AA Medium Hat Bottom vs SABIAN 14" AA Rock Hat Top
The AA Medium Hat Bottom is the bottom cymbal of a hi-hat pair, delivering bright cutting response with controlled wash when open; the AA Rock Hat Top is the top cymbal, designed for explosive power and heavy sticking durability. Choose the Bottom if you're building or completing a hi-hat setup and need the foundational cymbal; choose the Top if you need a top cymbal that cuts through dense mixes with aggressive articulation.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 14" AA Medium Hat Bottom | SABIAN 14" AA Rock Hat Top | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $244.99 | $244.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 14" | 14" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 14" AA Medium Hat Bottom
- ✓ Purpose-built bottom cymbal with controlled wash and solid response when open
- ✓ Crisp stick definition and vintage-bright character across rock, funk, jazz, and blues
- ✓ Heavy bottom weight classification optimizes traditional hi-hat balance and durability
Why choose SABIAN 14" AA Rock Hat Top
- ✓ Heavy top weight (1248g) engineered for relentless heavy sticking and demanding performances
- ✓ Explosive, cutting projection that penetrates loud band mixes
- ✓ Bright vintage-voiced tonality balanced with modern clarity for rock and funk
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these cymbals together as a matched hi-hat pair?
These are designated separately—the Bottom is designed as the bottom cymbal and the Top as the top cymbal. They are from the same AA series and both B20 bronze with bright character, but you would need to verify they are sold as a matched pair or that weights and finishes complement each other for optimal hi-hat response.
Which is better for jazz playing?
The AA Medium Hat Bottom is listed as ideal for jazz, offering crisp stick definition and controlled wash. The AA Rock Hat Top is listed as not ideal for jazz, favoring heavier rock and funk applications instead.
What's the weight difference and why does it matter?
The AA Rock Hat Top is stated at 1248g median weight in the heavy top classification, built for aggressive sticking. The Bottom is classified as heavy bottom but without a specific weight—bottom cymbals are typically lighter than tops to allow for responsive closing. The weight difference affects how the pair responds to pedal control and stick articulation.
Are both cymbals durable for professional use?
Yes, both are forged B20 bronze, classified as heavy variants for their respective positions, and backed by SABIAN's Two-Year Warranty. The AA Rock Hat Top emphasizes durability under relentless sticking, while the Medium Hat Bottom emphasizes reliable, controlled response through heavy playing.