Sabian 18" AA APOLLO
- Huge fun to play!
- Big, dark, loose and dynamic
- An incredibly versatile Ride cymbal
- Protected by SABIAN Two-Year Warranty
Out of stock
- SKU
- 21880A
Description
Sabian 18" AA APOLLO Ride Cymbal
The 18" AA APOLLO captures versatile responsiveness across a dynamic range of playing techniques in the studio and live setting. This cymbal balances crashability with controlled stick definition, opening up pitch options that distinguish it from its larger family members. Big, dark, loose, and dynamic—it sits naturally in dense mixes and records with genuine character whether you're striking it hard for modern cut or exploring subtle shimmer through lighter articulation.
Sound & Tracking Performance
Built from B20 bronze alloy, the APOLLO produces complex, distinctive tones that work across multiple session styles and genres. The bright sound profile combined with its thin weight creates a cymbal that responds to both aggressive and nuanced touch, translating both to isolation and blended kit recordings with clarity and definition.
Studio Specifications & Durability
The 18" diameter and thin weight keep this cymbal responsive and articulate compared to heavier alternatives, making it an ideal choice for close-mic'ing and detailed cymbal capture. SABIAN backs this cymbal with a two-year warranty against manufacturing flaws, ensuring confidence in its craftsmanship and long-term studio reliability.
Key Features
- 18" diameter ride cymbal
- B20 bronze alloy construction
- Thin weight specification
- Bright sound profile
- Modern style cymbal
- Available in natural or brilliant finish
- Two-year SABIAN warranty against manufacturing flaws
- Greater range of pitch within the Apollo family
- Enhanced crashability compared to larger models
- Complex, loose, and dynamic response characteristics
The Sabian 18" AA APOLLO combines the complexity and character that define SABIAN's Big & Ugly collection with the recording accessibility of a mid-sized ride, making it a genuinely capable instrument for producers and engineers seeking cymbal versatility without compromise.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 18" |
| Cymbal Type | Ride |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 18" AA APOLLO is a B20 ride cymbal that captures versatile, dynamic tones suited to multi-genre recording and layering—bright enough for modern cut, loose enough to shimmer under lighter touch. Its thin weight and responsive construction make it an efficient tracking choice for sessions that call for a single ride cymbal to anchor everything from rock to jazz to funk without excessive bleed or harshness. Pick it if you need a go-to ride that plays well with other cymbals and sits clearly in a mix across varied musical contexts.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Jazz
- ✓ Funk
- ✓ Progressive
Not the best pick for
- – Metal
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres is the 18" AA APOLLO best suited for?
This cymbal excels in rock, jazz, funk, and progressive music. Its bright profile with complex shimmer and controlled stick definition make it versatile across these styles, though it is not recommended for metal applications.
How does the thin weight affect playability?
The thin weight specification makes the cymbal more accessible and responsive than heavier alternatives, allowing it to respond to both aggressive and nuanced touch. This means lighter players can get full articulation, and it crashes easier despite its 18" size.
What is the difference between the natural and brilliant finish options?
Both finishes are available on the AA APOLLO; the natural finish retains the natural bronze patina, while the brilliant finish is polished for a brighter, shinier appearance. The sonic difference is minimal—choice comes down to visual preference.
How does the 18" size compare to larger ride cymbals?
The 18" diameter is more compact and accessible than 20" or larger rides, offering greater pitch range within the Apollo family and enhanced crashability. It still delivers the complex, loose, dynamic response of SABIAN's Big & Ugly collection while remaining lighter and easier to control.
What warranty does SABIAN include?
SABIAN backs the AA APOLLO with a two-year warranty against manufacturing flaws, ensuring confidence in its craftsmanship and long-term reliability.
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