21706XCB vs XSR2280M — Compare
SABIAN 17" Thin Crash AAX Brilliant Finish vs Sabian XSR 22" Monarch
The SABIAN 17" Thin Crash AAX is a bright, fast crash cymbal optimized for cutting through dense mixes in rock and metal, while the Sabian XSR 22" Monarch is a versatile ride cymbal with dry tone and crashability suited for rock and blues gigging. Choose the AAX for dedicated crash work in contemporary styles; choose the Monarch for a multi-purpose cymbal that rides and crashes.
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Specs side by side
| SABIAN 17" Thin Crash AAX Brilliant Finish | Sabian XSR 22" Monarch | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $334.99 | $334.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Effects |
| Cymbal Size | 17" | 22" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 17" Thin Crash AAX Brilliant Finish
- ✓ 17" size designed specifically as a crash with fast decay and minimal wash
- ✓ Bright brilliant finish and high-frequency character cuts through dense mixes
- ✓ Extra thin semi-lathed design enables responsive, articulate stick definition
- ✓ Quick attack supports subtle dynamic control and modern articulation
Why choose Sabian XSR 22" Monarch
- ✓ 22" larger diameter provides versatility as both a ride and crash cymbal
- ✓ Dry, short-sustain tone works well for rock, blues, and hard rock
- ✓ B20 bronze at budget price point offers genuine value
- ✓ Medium-thin profile with 2212-gram weight balances responsiveness and projection
Frequently asked questions
Can the Monarch be used primarily as a crash, or is it mainly a ride?
The Monarch is described as a ride cymbal with excellent crashability, making it multi-functional. However, it's engineered primarily as a ride, whereas the AAX Crash is a dedicated crash designed for maximum clarity and speed.
Which cymbal suits jazz players better?
Neither is ideal for jazz according to their descriptions. Both are optimized for rock, metal, and blues. Jazz players typically prefer more sustain and wash than these budget-tier cymbals offer.
What's the main tonal difference between these two?
The AAX Crash emphasizes bright, cutting treble with fast decay and minimal wash for contemporary styles. The Monarch delivers a drier, more focused tone with short sustain that works across rock and blues without excessive brightness.
Is the 17" crash large enough for a full drum kit, or is it supplementary?
The 17" AAX is small enough to serve as a complementary crash alongside a ride, or as a primary crash in smaller setups. The 22" Monarch can serve as your main cymbal if you want one versatile piece instead of a dedicated crash-ride pairing.