Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
Description
Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash Brilliant Finish
The 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash cuts through dense mixes with explosive punch and penetrating definition. This medium-thin crash delivers fuller, punchier impact while maintaining the bright, crisp, and cutting response the AAX series is known for. In the mix, it commands presence and clarity without muddying adjacent frequencies or sacrificing projection across the stereo field.
Tone & Recording Character
The AAX X-Plosion produces the ultimate Modern Bright sound—consistently bright, crisp, clear, and cutting. Its design generates penetrating definition with total presence and power, allowing this crash to translate with authority and articulation across studio monitoring systems, headphone mixes, and playback. The tonal signature remains focused and articulate even when layered with other percussion elements in dense arrangements.
Construction & Performance
Crafted from bronze with a dual-lathing process, this crash features a brilliant polished finish that enhances brightness while contributing to its responsive character. The medium-thin weight provides the balance needed for controlled stick articulation, fast note decay, and tight transient capture—ideal for session work across multiple genres.
Key Features
- Diameter: 17 inches
- Weight: Medium-thin
- Series: AAX (Modern Bright)
- Model: X-Plosion Crash
- Material: Bronze with dual-lathing process
- Finish: Brilliant (polished)
- Model Number: 21787XB
- Penetrating definition with total presence and power
- Explosive punch with fuller, punchier response
- Protected by Sabian Two-Year Warranty
The Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash is engineered to deliver cutting articulation and explosive impact that records and sits intelligently in any production style.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 17" |
| Cymbal Type | Crash |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 17" AAX X-Plosion Crash is a punchy, medium-thin crash that records with bright, crisp definition and sits prominently in rock and metal productions without muddying the mix. Its fast decay and cutting response make it a versatile session choice for tracking drums in styles that demand articulation and cutting power. The brilliant finish enhances brightness and clarity on tape, giving you a modern, aggressive crash tone that translates well across different playback systems.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Gigging
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Folk
- – Worship
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 17" X-Plosion different from other AAX crashes?
The X-Plosion is a medium-thin crash engineered for explosive punch and penetrating definition with a faster decay than heavier crashes. Its bright, cutting response and fuller power make it ideal for cutting through high-volume live mixes and rock/metal settings.
Is this cymbal good for jazz or worship music?
No—the X-Plosion is optimized for rock, metal, and hard rock, where its aggressive, cutting tone and fast decay shine. Its penetrating brightness and explosive character are not suited to the subtlety and warmth needed in jazz or worship applications.
What skill level do I need to play this crash well?
This crash is best suited for intermediate, advanced, and professional drummers who can control its responsive, punchy character and take advantage of its fast decay and cutting articulation.
What material and finish is this cymbal made from?
The 17" X-Plosion is crafted from bronze with a dual-lathing process and a brilliant polished finish that enhances brightness and contributes to its crisp, responsive tone.
How does the medium-thin weight affect playback?
The medium-thin weight delivers quick stick response and fast decay while maintaining fuller, punchier power—giving you clarity and definition without sacrificing projection in live or recorded settings.
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