Sabian 14" XSR Monarch Hats
- Crisp, dry, woody stick sound
- Unlathed tops provide plenty of control
- Huge fun to play
- Protected by SABIAN two-year warranty
Out of stock
- SKU
- XSR1480MH
Description
Sabian 14" XSR Monarch Hats
The XSR Monarch Hats deliver crisp, dry, woody stick definition with exceptional control and articulation—essential qualities for tracking drums with precision in the studio. Thin top paired with a medium-thin bottom creates a cymbal that captures dynamic playing nuance while maintaining tight, focused articulation across multiple recording sessions. These unlathed hats blend fat tone with the frequency balance needed to cut through a mix while remaining articulate at moderate volumes.
Sound & Mix Compatibility
Built from B20 Bronze using trickle-down technology from Sabian's award-winning Evolution and X-Plosion lines, the Monarchs deliver inherent dryness and woody stick sound with remarkable clarity—qualities that translate well to close-miked drum recordings and minimize phase issues in a stereo overhead setup. The thin top and medium-thin bottom construction provides the control and blend you need without sacrificing articulation or making these hats difficult to place in a mix.
Construction & Studio Performance
Unlathed tops provide plenty of control and consistent recording response, while the cast alloy construction, machine hammering, and full lathing ensure reliable performance session after session. The small bell design contributes to the focused, articulate response characteristic of this series, making these hats ideal for genres where cymbal definition matters.
Key Features
- Size: 14"
- Material: B20 Bronze
- Top weight: 805 grams (thin)
- Bottom weight: 1146 grams (medium-thin)
- Unlathed tops for superior control
- Small bell design
- Cast alloy construction with machine hammering and full lathing
- Traditional finish
- Handcrafted in Canada
- Protected by SABIAN two-year warranty
- Crisp, dry, woody stick sound
- Versatile across dynamic playing ranges
The Sabian XSR Monarch Hats combine articulate, recordable response with fat tone in a cymbal that rewards controlled playing and captures dynamic nuance without compromising studio clarity.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 14" |
| Cymbal Type | Hi-Hats |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 14" XSR Monarch Hats offer crisp, dry, woody stick definition that cuts through a dense mix with focused articulation, ideal for recording rock, metal, and funk sessions where clarity and control matter. The thin top and medium-thin bottom construction respond dynamically to playing dynamics while the small bell design keeps the sound tight and articulate in the mix. Handcrafted in Canada from B20 bronze with machine-hammered cast alloy construction, they deliver consistent, punchy tone across multiple takes and mix well with other cymbals in studio setups.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Studio Sessions
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Traditional Jazz
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What playing styles are these hats best suited for?
The XSR Monarchs excel in rock, metal, funk, and studio sessions where crisp stick definition and tight articulation are priorities. They are not recommended for jazz or traditional jazz playing, where open, washy tones are typically preferred.
What makes the thin top and medium-thin bottom pairing effective?
The thin top (805g) pairs with the medium-thin bottom (1146g) to create responsive, dynamic articulation while maintaining control and blend. This construction allows the hats to respond to your playing dynamics without sacrificing volume or presence.
Are these hats suitable for beginners, or do they require advanced technique?
These hats are designed for intermediate, advanced, and professional drummers who can take advantage of their responsive dynamics and control-oriented design. They reward precise, intentional playing and are best suited to players with developed technique.
How do the unlathed tops affect the sound and playability?
Unlathed tops provide superior control and the inherent dryness that defines the XSR Monarch sound, while the small bell design contributes to the focused, articulate response. This design keeps the tone tight and clear without sacrificing the fat tone the cymbal is known for.
What construction details ensure durability for gigging and recording?
The Monarchs are cast in B20 bronze with machine hammering and full lathing on the bottom cymbal, plus a traditional finish. Handcrafted in Canada and protected by a two-year SABIAN warranty, they are built to withstand consistent use in live and studio environments.
Similar Gear
Complete the Rig
Gear that pairs well with this.
✨ For You
Based on what you've been looking at.