Sabian 17 Inch AA Holy China Cymbal - 21716CS
Description
Sabian 17 Inch AA Holy China Cymbal (21716CS)
The 17" AA Holy China delivers the signature trashy, cutting tone of Sabian's Holy China series in a more manageable size and volume. This cymbal cuts through a mix with aggressive character while remaining responsive to dynamic playing, making it ideal for tracking sessions where definition and articulation matter without overwhelming other instruments.
Tone & Recording Character
Built with B20 cast bronze and a large raw bell, this China produces a distinctly bright voice with the textured, sizzling wash Holy Chinas are known for. The 48 holes punched throughout the cymbal body contribute to the crisp, trashy articulation that cuts through dense mixes and captures well on tape or in the DAW. This character makes it particularly effective for overdubs and layered percussion work.
Studio Application & Playability
The high profile and wide lip structure create a responsive striking surface that locks in quickly, giving you consistent, predictable attack in the control room. The thin weight classification keeps the cymbal nimble and easy to control for both tight hi-hat work and crash accents, while the brilliant finish reflects light and contributes to the cutting brightness that translates well through microphones.
Key Features
- 17 inch diameter
- B20 cast bronze construction
- Thin weight classification
- Bright sound profile
- China-type cymbal
- 48 punched holes
- Large raw bell
- High profile design
- Wide lip
- Brilliant finish
This AA Holy China combines aggressive articulation with controlled volume, making it a versatile addition to drum kits for recording sessions spanning rock, alternative, and beyond—balancing presence with mix-friendly positioning.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 17" |
| Cymbal Type | Effects |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 17" AA Holy China is a bright, articulate China cymbal that sits well in dense mixes, delivering crisp, trashy attack and a textured sizzling wash without eating up midrange space in a recording. Its thin weight and punched-hole design make it responsive to varied striking dynamics, giving producers and engineers a versatile tool for layering texture and definition in rock and alternative sessions. Choose this cymbal for recordings where you need aggressive cymbal character that doesn't overpower vocals or guitars.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Alternative
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Classical
- – Worship
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 17 inch size different from larger Holy Chinas?
The 17" delivers the same signature trashy, cutting tone as larger Holy Chinas but in a more manageable size with reduced volume, making it easier to control on stage and in live mixing situations without sacrificing the aggressive character.
Is this cymbal suitable for jazz or classical music?
No—this cymbal is designed specifically for rock, alternative, metal, and hard rock. Its bright, trashy articulation and aggressive character are not suited to jazz, classical, or worship styles.
What does the thin weight classification mean for playability?
The thin weight keeps the cymbal nimble and easy to control, allowing responsive dynamics and quick articulation without requiring heavy striking force, which is ideal for drummers who want precision in a band mix.
What is the purpose of the 48 punched holes?
The punched holes contribute directly to the crisp, trashy articulation and textured sizzling wash that defines the Holy China's personality, creating the bright cutting tone this cymbal is known for.
How does this compare to other budget-friendly Chinas like the Paiste PST?
The Sabian AA Holy China uses B20 cast bronze and a large raw bell to deliver a brighter, more aggressive voice with more pronounced trashy character than the Paiste PST, making it a stronger choice for rock and metal players seeking definition.
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