21808XCB vs 218SHN-1 — Compare
SABIAN 18" Medium Crash AAX Brilliant Finish vs SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Top
The AAX Crash is a standalone crash cymbal for cutting through mixes with bright articulation, while the AA Sick Hat Top is a complete hi-hat pair designed for tight, controlled stick definition and wash control. Choose the crash if you need a dedicated crash voice for live and studio work; choose the Sick Hat if you're building or upgrading your hi-hat setup.
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SABIAN 18" Medium Crash AAX Brilliant Finish
Specs side by side
| SABIAN 18" Medium Crash AAX Brilliant Finish | SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Top | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $359.99 | $359.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Crash | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 18" | 18" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose SABIAN 18" Medium Crash AAX Brilliant Finish
- ✓ Standalone crash cymbal—no pairing required, ready to add to any kit immediately
- ✓ Bright, penetrating tone cuts through dense mixes in live and studio settings
- ✓ Quick attack with defined stick articulation and controlled sustain for dynamic playing
Why choose SABIAN 18" AA Sick Hat Top
- ✓ Complete hi-hat pair ready to mount and play—includes both top and bottom cymbals
- ✓ Unique hole-pattern design in top cymbal provides flexible vibe and wash control unavailable in solid cymbals
- ✓ Asymmetrical weight pairing (1107g top, 1721g bottom) delivers reliable foot response and cutting articulation for tight pocket work
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these products together in one kit?
Yes. They serve different functions—the crash for crash accents and fills, the Sick Hat for hi-hat work on beats and grooves. Many drummers use both simultaneously in rock and metal setups.
Which is better for metal and hard rock?
Both excel in metal and hard rock. The crash provides bright, cutting crashes for dynamics and accents; the Sick Hat provides fast, articulate hi-hat definition for driving rhythms. Many metal drummers use both together.
What's the key difference in construction?
The AAX Crash is a single 18-inch cymbal with brilliant finish and over-hammering for complex overtones. The AA Sick Hat is a pair with the top cymbal machined with 28 holes (creating unique vibe control) and a solid bottom cymbal, both with unlathed natural finish.
Are these suitable for beginners?
Both are rated for intermediate, advanced, and professional players. Their bright, cutting character and quick response suit aggressive styles better than jazz or classical; beginners may find them unforgiving compared to warmer, darker cymbals.