21402XC-1 vs 21402XC-2 — Compare
SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top vs SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Bottom
The AAX Medium Hat Top is the top cymbal of a hi-hat pair, while the AAX Medium Hat Bottom is the bottom cymbal—they are designed to work together as matching pairs, not as standalone alternatives. Buy both together for a complete 14" AAX Medium Hi-Hat set, or choose individual replacements if upgrading one cymbal in an existing pair.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top | SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Bottom | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Medium Hat Top
- ✓ Lighter top weight (1027g) enables faster, more articulate stick response
- ✓ Brighter highs with nuanced lows and complex harmonics suit studio and contemporary sounds
- ✓ Thinner profile blends seamlessly into fast playing styles without overpowering
Why choose SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Bottom
- ✓ Medium-heavy bottom weight provides clean articulation and controlled sustain
- ✓ Air Wave design eliminates air lock for natural response during open and closed playing
- ✓ Tight, punchy closes with excellent stick definition that cuts through a mix
Frequently asked questions
Do these cymbals work together or are they standalone options?
They are designed to work together as a matched hi-hat pair. The Top sits above, the Bottom sits below, and their weight specifications (Top: 1027g, Bottom: 1287g) complement each other for balanced articulation and response. Pairing them together produces the tight, punchy closes and complex tonal character SABIAN engineered into this AAX Medium series.
Which one should I buy if I only need to replace one cymbal in my existing hi-hat?
Identify which cymbal in your current pair is damaged or worn. If your top cymbal needs replacing, purchase the AAX Medium Hat Top; if your bottom needs replacing, purchase the AAX Medium Hat Bottom. For best results, match the weight and lathing process of your existing cymbal.
What skill levels and genres are these hats suited for?
Both cymbals target intermediate, advanced, and professional drummers across studio sessions, live performance, jazz, and rock. Their articulate, controlled response makes them versatile across contemporary playing styles but not ideal for heavy metal or thrash metal applications requiring heavier, darker tones.
What is the Air Wave design on the Bottom cymbal?
The Air Wave bottom design is a feature that eliminates air lock—the pressure buildup that can muffle response when the hats close. This allows the cymbals to breathe and respond naturally during both open and closed playing, improving overall articulation and feel.