22012 vs H15H/1 — Compare
Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride vs SABIAN 15" HH HAMMERTONE HAT TOP
The Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride is a single crash-ride cymbal built for gigging rock and pop players who want bright projection and stick definition, while the SABIAN 15" HH Hammertone Hat Top is a hi-hat top cymbal designed for jazz and fusion players seeking tight articulation and controlled sustain. They serve different roles in a drum kit and cannot be directly compared as alternatives.
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Specs side by side
| Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride | SABIAN 15" HH HAMMERTONE HAT TOP | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399.99 | $394.99 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Ride | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 20" | 15" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride
- ✓ Versatile 20-inch ride works for gigging, live rock, and pop applications
- ✓ Bright, cutting tone with excellent projection cuts through a full band mix
- ✓ Proven AA series design in continuous production since 1982 provides tonal consistency and reliability
- ✓ Medium weight balances stick definition with complex sustain
Why choose SABIAN 15" HH HAMMERTONE HAT TOP
- ✓ Purpose-built hi-hat top for jazz, fusion, and studio sessions requiring precision
- ✓ Fast response and tight articulation from thin top weight and hammertone design
- ✓ B20 bronze with fully lathed finish delivers traditional warmth and professional-grade clarity
- ✓ Controlled sustain pairs naturally with medium bottom cymbal for responsive, musical decay
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these cymbals interchangeably?
No. The 20" AA Medium Ride is a standalone ride cymbal for cutting through a mix in rock and pop contexts. The 15" HH Hammertone Hat Top is a hi-hat cymbal that must be paired with a medium bottom cymbal and is optimized for tight, controlled playing in jazz and fusion.
Which is better for jazz?
The SABIAN 15" HH Hammertone Hat Top is specifically designed for jazz, fusion, and studio sessions, offering the articulation and controlled sustain that style demands. The 20" AA Medium Ride is rated as not ideal for jazz, as its bright, projecting character is optimized for rock and pop.
What is the key tonal difference?
The 20" AA Medium Ride delivers bright, cutting response with moderate sustain and excellent projection for live performance. The 15" HH Hammertone Hat Top emphasizes fast response, tight articulation, and controlled sustain with a more nuanced hammertone character designed for precision playing.
Are both suitable for beginners?
The 20" AA Medium Ride is rated suitable for beginner through professional skill levels. The 15" HH Hammertone Hat Top is rated for intermediate, advanced, and professional players, making it better suited to drummers with prior experience.