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Sabian 19" AAX X-Treme Chinese vs Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride
The AAX X-Treme Chinese is a specialized, aggressive cymbal for rock and metal drummers who need cutting power and fast articulation in dense mixes, while the AA Medium Ride is a versatile, all-purpose ride cymbal suited for gigging musicians across rock, pop, and live settings. Choose the Chinese if you prioritize penetrating definition and oriental character; choose the Ride if you need a reliable, balanced workhorse that handles multiple musical contexts.
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Specs side by side
| Sabian 19" AAX X-Treme Chinese | Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399.99 | $399.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Effects | Ride |
| Cymbal Size | 19" | 20" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 19" AAX X-Treme Chinese
- ✓ Extremely fast attack and rapid decay cut through heavy, dense arrangements
- ✓ Raw, ripping tone with oriental punch designed specifically for rock and metal
- ✓ Lighter weight (1264g) allows quick, responsive playing in high-volume contexts
- ✓ B20 bronze construction delivers professional durability at budget price tier
Why choose Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride
- ✓ Versatile 20-inch ride works across rock, pop, and gigging without tonal constraints
- ✓ Medium weight (2177–2988g range) balances stick definition with sustaining wash
- ✓ Four-decade manufacturing history proves proven, consistent performance
- ✓ Bright, articulate tone with excellent projection suits live performance reliability
Frequently asked questions
Which cymbal works better for live gigging situations?
The AA Medium Ride is purpose-built for gigging and live performance across rock and pop contexts. The AAX X-Treme Chinese is specialized for studio and high-volume metal contexts where its cutting character and fast decay are advantages rather than liabilities.
What is the key tonal difference between these two cymbals?
The AAX X-Treme Chinese delivers raw, ripping attack with oriental punch and rapid decay for definition. The AA Medium Ride offers bright, articulate tone with moderate sustain and a balanced wash, making it less aggressive and more adaptable to varied playing styles.
Are both cymbals suitable for beginners?
The AA Medium Ride accommodates beginner through professional levels and is forgiving in hand. The AAX X-Treme Chinese is rated intermediate to professional and demands control to harness its fast attack effectively.
Why is the AAX X-Treme so much lighter than the AA Medium Ride?
The lighter weight (1264g versus 2177–2988g) enables the AAX X-Treme's fast attack and rapid decay, which are essential for cutting through heavy mixes. The heavier AA Medium Ride sustains longer, making it suitable as a ride cymbal for varied musical textures.