Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride
Description
Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride Cymbal
The Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride delivers bright, cutting articulation with moderate weight that balances stick definition and wash—ideal for tracking drums in the studio or mixing into tight arrangements. This cymbal responds predictably across the bow and bell, cutting through without overwhelming your mix while maintaining the clarity needed in multi-track recording sessions.
Tone & Projection
Built from B20 bronze, this ride produces a bright sound profile with excellent projection and articulation that translates well to close-miked and ambient recording techniques. The medium weight—typically ranging from 2177–2988g—ensures the cymbal cuts through a mix while maintaining enough mass to sustain full, complex overtones for layered cymbal textures and overdubs.
Design & Build
Manufactured continuously since 1982, the AA series represents Sabian's proven mid-range cymbal line with tonal consistency across multiple units for matched kit sessions. Available in both Natural and Brilliant finishes, this cymbal retains a Vintage style construction that has remained consistent across decades of production, making replacement or expansion seamless within your drum setup.
Key Features
- 20-inch diameter
- AA series
- Medium Ride type
- B20 bronze alloy
- Bright sound profile
- Weight range: 2177–2988g
- Vintage style construction
- In production since 1982
- Natural finish option
- Brilliant finish option
This 20" AA Medium Ride offers proven performance and tonal consistency backed by four decades of continuous manufacturing, making it a reliable choice for capturing articulate ride work in professional and home studio environments.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 20" |
| Cymbal Type | Ride |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 20" AA Medium Ride brings a bright, articulate character to drum recordings, sitting well in rock and pop mixes where clarity and stick definition matter. Its moderate weight and B20 bronze construction produce excellent projection and complex overtones that record cleanly across the bow and bell, making it versatile for tracking different ride techniques in the studio. At a budget-friendly price point, it's a practical choice for home and project studios looking for a dependable, tonal ride that won't clutter a mix.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Gigging
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Pop
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Very high-volume metal contexts where darker rides are preferred
Skill level: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AA series, and how long has Sabian made it?
The AA series is Sabian's mid-range cymbal line built from B20 bronze, with Vintage style construction that has remained consistent in production since 1982. This four-decade track record means the sound and build quality are proven and stable across thousands of instruments.
Will this ride work for jazz playing?
No. The AA 20" Medium Ride is designed for rock, pop, and live gigging contexts where brightness and cutting power are assets. Jazz players typically prefer warmer, darker rides with faster decay, which this cymbal is not optimized for.
What finishes are available?
This cymbal comes in both Natural and Brilliant finishes, allowing you to choose based on visual preference. Both finishes produce the same bright, cutting tone profile.
How heavy is this cymbal, and will it respond well in a full band?
The 20" AA Medium Ride weighs between 2177–2988g, a medium mass that balances stick definition with enough sustain to cut through a live mix or full recording session. It responds predictably across the bow and bell, making it reliable for both riding patterns and accents.
What makes this ride different from similar budget rides?
The AA series' decades of continuous production mean Sabian has refined the B20 bronze formula and construction methods extensively. Compared to newer budget series, you're getting proven tonal consistency and durability at a comparable price.
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