HC-14-2 vs S12CS-2 — Compare
14" AA Hoop Crasher Bottom vs 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom
The 14" AA Hoop Crasher Bottom is a medium-heavy, bright-attack cymbal designed for experienced players building custom stacks in rock and metal contexts; the 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom is a thinner, more responsive entry-to-intermediate option that prioritizes versatility and sizzle effects. Choose the AA Hoop Crasher if you want a focused, cutting crash sound and have the playing technique to maximize it; choose the Stratus Cirro Stax if you value adjustability, lighter feel, and the ability to dial in sizzle.
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Specs side by side
| 14" AA Hoop Crasher Bottom | 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $182.99 | $182.14 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 14" | 12" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose 14" AA Hoop Crasher Bottom
- ✓ Medium-heavy weight delivers bright, cutting attack ideal for rock and metal
- ✓ Dual-ring design with loose rivets produces articulate, responsive character
- ✓ Accelerator airwave lift technology eliminates airlock for clean playing feel
Why choose 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom
- ✓ Thin weight and smaller 12" size offer easier control for intermediate and beginner players
- ✓ Center wingnut tension adjustment lets you switch between bright cuts and sizzly tones
- ✓ More affordable entry point to premium Sabian B20 construction
Frequently asked questions
Which cymbal is better for beginners?
The 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom is listed for beginner through professional skill levels and its thinner weight is more forgiving. The 14" AA Hoop Crasher Bottom is recommended for intermediate, advanced, and professional players only.
What's the main tonal difference between them?
The 14" AA Hoop Crasher delivers a bright, cutting attack with fast decay and minimal sustain. The 12" Stratus Cirro Stax offers bright, cutting tones but with adjustable sizzle via the center wingnut, giving you more sonic range from a single cymbal.
Can I adjust the sound on either cymbal?
The 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom features a center wingnut tension control that lets you tighten for brightness or loosen for sizzle effects. The 14" AA Hoop Crasher Bottom has a fixed design with no adjustment mechanism.
Which one is more suitable for jazz or folk?
Neither cymbal is ideal for jazz or folk; both are specifically engineered for rock, hard rock, and metal genres. If you play those genres, look for a different Sabian line.