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SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top Brilliant Finish vs SABIAN 14" AAX Freq Hat Top
The AAX Medium Hat Top is slightly lighter and more versatile across rock, pop, and funk, while the AAX Freq Hat Top is heavier and optimized specifically for modern rock and metal with enhanced cutting projection. Choose the Medium Hat Top for broader stylistic flexibility; choose the Freq Hat Top if you prioritize cutting through dense mixes with maximum clarity.
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SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top Brilliant Finish
Specs side by side
| SABIAN 14" AAX Medium Hat Top Brilliant Finish | SABIAN 14" AAX Freq 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 Medium Hat Top Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Lighter top cymbal (1027g) offers faster response and greater versatility across multiple genres
- ✓ Visible hammering pattern and refined bell design provide predictable, responsive feel across dynamic ranges
- ✓ Balanced bright highs with deeper lows for both studio clarity and stage musicality
Why choose SABIAN 14" AAX Freq Hat Top
- ✓ Heavier bottom cymbal (1486g) creates more substantial stick definition and controlled decay
- ✓ Dual-lathing process delivers focused, frequency-specific attack that cuts through dense mixes
- ✓ Raw bell construction with bright sound profile excels in modern rock and metal applications
Frequently asked questions
Which pair is better for cutting through a loud rock or metal band?
The AAX Freq Hat Top has a heavier bottom cymbal and dual-lathing process specifically designed for cutting projection in dense mixes, making it the better choice for high-volume rock and metal.
Can I use either pair for studio recording?
Yes. Both are equally at home in the studio. The AAX Medium Hat Top offers more tonal complexity and versatility across genres, while the AAX Freq Hat Top prioritizes clarity and focused frequency response ideal for tight, modern recordings.
What is the main weight difference and why does it matter?
The Freq Hat Top's bottom cymbal weighs 1486g versus the Medium Hat Top's 1287g. The extra weight on the Freq provides more stick definition and controlled decay, preferred in styles demanding precise articulation and projection.
Which pair feels faster under the stick?
The AAX Medium Hat Top with its lighter top cymbal (1027g) will feel faster and more responsive, while the Freq Hat Top's heavier overall weight distribution provides more substantial, deliberate stick feel.