S12CS-1 vs S12CS-2 — Compare
12" Stratus Cirro Stax Top vs 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom
The Stratus Cirro Stax Top is a loose, breathing cymbal designed for jazz, funk, and studio work with nuanced dynamic control, while the Stax Bottom is a bright, cutting cymbal engineered for rock and metal with punchy articulation. Choose the Top if you need flexibility and responsiveness for genres requiring subtle expression; choose the Bottom if you want cutting clarity and bright projection for harder-hitting styles.
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Specs side by side
| 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Top | 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $182.14 | $182.14 |
| Brand | Sabian | Sabian |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats | Hi-Hats |
| Cymbal Size | 12" | 12" |
| Condition | New | New |
Why choose 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Top
- ✓ Loose, wavy design rewards subtle control and dynamic range
- ✓ Extra-heavy hammering creates responsive, flexible character
- ✓ Can be played independently for phaser effects
- ✓ Ideal for jazz, funk, and progressive styles
Why choose 12" Stratus Cirro Stax Bottom
- ✓ Bright, cutting articulation cuts through dense mixes
- ✓ Delivers consistent punchy response for rock and metal
- ✓ Beginner-friendly with straightforward bright tone
- ✓ Flat raw finish optimized for stack performance
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these cymbals together as a matched pair?
Yes. The Top (S12CS-1) and Bottom (S12CS-2) are designed to pair together as a complete 12" Stratus Cirro Stax stack. Together they create a cohesive unit, though each is also playable independently.
Which cymbal is better for a beginner?
The Stax Bottom is listed as beginner-friendly and delivers straightforward bright tone. The Stax Top is better suited for intermediate and advanced players who can exploit its responsive, flexible design and subtle control demands.
How do the finishes differ, and does it affect tone?
The Top has a raw front and lathed back contrast, while the Bottom has a flat raw finish. Both are B20 bronze and Thin weight, but the Top's extra-heavy hammering and design priorities make it looser and more versatile, while the Bottom is optimized for bright, cutting clarity in stack mode.
Can I adjust the sound of each cymbal?
Yes. Both cymbals feature adjustable tension — the Top has an adjustable tension mechanism for tight articulation or pronounced sizzle, and the Bottom uses a center wingnut to tighten for bright cutting or loosen for sizzle effects.