Sabian 20" Paragon Chinese
Description
Sabian 20" Paragon Chinese
The Sabian 20" Paragon Chinese delivers a sharp, cutting response with a characteristically drier tone that punches through dense mixes without disappearing into the low end. Its compact profile and steeply angled bow respond decisively to stick articulation, while the small, flanged lip provides definition that translates clearly to recordings. This cymbal sits perfectly in sessions where crisp Chinese accents need to maintain clarity and separation in the mix without excessive ring or wash.
Construction & Materials
Handcrafted from pure SABIAN B20 bronze with AAX-style lathing, this cymbal combines traditional metallurgy with modern manufacturing precision. The oriental-style swish-hammering technique creates the drier, harder sound signature that defines the Paragon line's character.
Sound & Response
A medium weight with a small bell and short, steeply angled bow produces fast attack and minimal wash, ideal for recording sessions and styles requiring articulate stick definition. The small, flanged lip reinforces the cutting attack and contributes to the focused, trashy character without excessive ring—essential for capturing clean drum tracks that sit well in post-production.
Key Features
- 20-inch diameter
- Medium weight construction
- Pure SABIAN B20 bronze alloy
- AAX-style lathing
- Small, flanged lip design
- Short, steeply angled bow
- Small bell structure
- Oriental-style swish-hammering
- Drier, harder sound profile
- Weight range: 1488g–1725g
- Manufactured 2004–Present
The Paragon Chinese remains a reliable studio choice for productions prioritizing articulate attack, controlled decay, and separation in your drum mix.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 20" |
| Cymbal Type | Crash |
| Country of Manufacture | Canada |
Reviews
At a Glance
The Sabian 20" Paragon Chinese is a B20 bronze Chinese cymbal engineered for sharp, cutting definition and minimal sustain, making it ideal for layering into dense rock and metal recordings. Its articulate response and dry tone sit cleanly in busy mixes without competing for space, and the steeply angled bow responds to subtle mic and playing dynamics. Choose it if you need a crisp, controlled accent cymbal that adds definition and punch to your drum tracks.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Hard Rock
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres and styles is this cymbal best suited for?
The Paragon Chinese excels in rock, metal, hard rock, and studio sessions where a sharp, cutting accent is needed. Its drier tone and minimal sustain make it less suitable for jazz or folk applications.
How does the Paragon Chinese compare to other 20-inch Chinese cymbals?
The Paragon delivers sharper cutting response and a drier tone than comparable models like the Zildjian K Custom Chinese or Paiste PST Chinese, making it ideal if you prioritize articulate definition and controlled sustain over wash and shimmer.
What skill level do I need to play this cymbal?
The Paragon Chinese is designed for intermediate, advanced, and professional drummers who can control and articulate its responsive, steep-bowed design effectively.
What construction method gives this cymbal its sound character?
The cymbal is handcrafted from pure SABIAN B20 bronze with AAX-style lathing and uses oriental-style swish-hammering to create its drier, harder signature sound.
How will this cymbal sit in a dense mix or live performance?
Its sharp, cutting response and minimal sustain allow it to punch through without clouding the mix, making it reliable for cutting through dense arrangements on stage and in recordings.