SABIAN 9" AAX MAXX SPLASH V2
Description
SABIAN 9" AAX MAXX SPLASH V2
This 9" AAX MAXX SPLASH V2 delivers a soft yet cutting response with a medium weight that balances control and projection. Designed in collaboration with Mike Portnoy to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the original Max Splashes, this cymbal features a redesigned large raw bell and updated profile that enhance volume and cut without introducing a dominant fundamental pitch.
Recording & Mix Placement
The bright-mid timbre combined with the absence of a strong fundamental pitch makes this splash exceptionally versatile for cutting through dense arrangements without competing for frequency space. The soft volume classification and medium feel allow for articulate attacks across dynamic ranges, sitting cleanly in the mix without overpowering kick, snare, or tonal elements.
Specifications & Construction
Built from B20 bronze, the cymbal incorporates a large, raw bell with new shape that produces enhanced projection and presence in tracked performances compared to earlier Max Splash iterations. At 204g, the medium weight provides sufficient mass for clear, defined transients while remaining responsive to lighter touch work across varied playing dynamics.
Key Features
- 9" diameter
- B20 bronze alloy
- Medium weight (204g actual)
- Soft volume classification
- Bright-Mid timbre
- Large, raw bell with new shape
- No strong fundamental pitch
- Designed with Mike Portnoy
- 25th anniversary Max Splash redesign
- Model Reference: 20905XMPV2
- Medium feel
- Enhanced volume and projection
This AAX MAXX SPLASH V2 combines articulate definition with refined projection, making it an ideal accent cymbal for tracking sessions where clarity and controlled presence across the frequency spectrum are priorities.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Cymbal Size | 9" |
| Cymbal Type | Splash |
Reviews
At a Glance
The SABIAN 9" AAX MAXX SPLASH V2 is a bright-mid cymbal voiced for studio clarity—its soft volume and absence of a dominant fundamental pitch help it cut through dense arrangements without muddying the overhead or room mics. At 204g with a medium feel, it captures articulate attacks at any velocity and layers cleanly with other cymbals during overdubs or live-session tracking. This splash excels in rock, metal, and progressive productions where you need definition without pitch coloration.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Rock
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
Not the best pick for
- – Traditional Jazz
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the AAX MAXX SPLASH V2 different from the original Max Splash?
This redesigned V2 features a new large raw bell profile and updated shape that deliver enhanced volume and projection compared to earlier Max Splash iterations, while maintaining the same soft volume classification and bright-mid timbre.
Will this splash work for jazz or traditional cymbal setups?
No—this cymbal is designed specifically for rock, metal, progressive, and studio applications. Its bright-mid timbre and cutting articulation are not voiced for traditional jazz or folk playing styles.
How heavy is this cymbal, and will it respond to lighter playing?
At 204g (medium weight), it's responsive enough to articulate cleanly at lower dynamics while providing sufficient mass for projection at higher volumes, making it versatile across a wide dynamic range.
Does this splash have a dominant pitch I need to tune out?
No—one of its key design features is the absence of a strong fundamental pitch, which helps it sit cleanly in dense mix environments without introducing unwanted tonal coloration.
What material is this cymbal made from?
It is cast from B20 bronze alloy with a large, raw bell and new redesigned shape for enhanced projection.