What is the primary material used in the Sabian 17" Stratus Crash?

The cymbal is crafted from high-quality B20 bronze. This alloy is preferred by professional manufacturers for its durability and rich, musical tonal properties.

How does the weight of the Stratus Crash affect its sound?

The cymbal features a thin weight. This allows for a more responsive feel, a deeper tone, and a much faster decay compared to medium or heavy weight crashes.

Is this cymbal suitable for studio recording?

Yes, it is highly suited for studio work. The quick, controlled attack and rapid decay ensure that it provides the necessary impact without creating excessive sustain that might clutter a mix.

What is the typical price for a Sabian 17" Stratus Crash?

In the UK market, the typical price range for this specific model is approximately £315. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer and current availability.

How does the 17-inch size impact the performance compared to an 18-inch crash?

A 17-inch crash generally offers a slightly higher pitch and a faster response than an 18-inch version. It is often chosen for sharp accents where a larger cymbal might be too overpowering.

What music styles is the Stratus series designed for?

It is designed for modern music styles. Its versatility makes it appropriate for a wide range of genres where clear articulation and dynamic responsiveness are required.

Does the Stratus Crash have a bright or dark tone?

It delivers a bright yet balanced sound. While the initial attack is bright and cutting, it is supported by a warm musical spread and a deep tone.

How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash?

The Sabian Stratus 17" is smaller and typically brighter than the 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash. The Meinl model is known for an 'earthier' and shorter sound, while the Stratus provides a more traditional B20 shimmer with modern control.

Can the 17" Stratus Crash be used for live performances?

Absolutely. Its clear articulation and ability to integrate into various genres make it a reliable choice for live settings where dynamic control is necessary.

What is the 'decay' of this cymbal like?

The decay is described as rapid. This means the sound fades quickly after the initial strike, allowing for very clean and sharp accents within a drum fill.

Is the Sabian 17" Stratus Crash considered a professional-level cymbal?

Yes, it is a professional-grade instrument. This is reflected in its B20 bronze construction, complex sonic characteristics, and its typical market price point.

How does it differ from a low-volume cymbal pack?

Unlike low-volume cymbal packs designed for practice, the Stratus Crash is a full-volume professional cymbal. It provides a complete range of harmonics and projection intended for performance and recording.

Gear article

Sabian 17" Stratus Crash

The Sabian 17" Stratus Crash is a professional-grade percussion instrument designed for contemporary drummers seeking a fast, controlled attack and rapid decay. Crafted from premium B20 bronze, the cymbal is engineered to provide a bright yet balanced tone that integrates seamlessly into modern studio and live environments.

See live prices

Overview

The Sabian 17" Stratus Crash is a high-performance cymbal developed to meet the demands of modern music production. It sits within the Stratus series, a line known for balancing traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sonic requirements. Its thin weight profile allows for immediate activation, making it highly responsive to various sticking velocities.

Construction and Design

This cymbal is manufactured using Sabian's high-quality B20 bronze alloy, a standard for professional instruments due to its durability and complex harmonic profile. The 17-inch diameter provides a middle-ground response that is larger than standard effects splashes but more controlled than 18 or 19-inch crashes. The thin construction is the defining physical characteristic, facilitating a deep tone and a quick decay.

Sound Character and Performance

The sonic profile of the 17" Stratus Crash is described as bright but balanced. Key attributes include:

Quick Controlled Attack: The cymbal speaks immediately upon impact, providing sharp accents.
Rapid Decay: Because of its thin weight, the sound does not linger excessively, preventing it from washing out other instruments.
Warm Musical Spread: While the initial strike is bright, the wash is deep and warm, offering a sophisticated tonal pallet.
Clear Articulation: The cymbal maintains clarity whether played as a light accent or a heavy crash.

Application and Suitability

The Stratus Crash is versatile enough for both studio recording and live performance. Its quick decay is particularly useful in studio settings where engineers often prefer cymbals that do not 'bleed' extensively into other microphones. It suits drummers across various genres who require a dynamic instrument that can provide musical emphasis without overwhelming the mix.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other professional models, the Sabian 17" Stratus Crash offers a different frequency response than the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, which is larger and focuses on drier, earthier tones. Unlike entry-level options like the Meinl HCS series or low-volume practice cymbals, the Stratus delivers the full harmonic richness expected of B20 bronze. It provides a more modern, controlled alternative to heritage-style cymbals like the Paiste Giant Beat or the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch series.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used in the Sabian 17" Stratus Crash?: The cymbal is crafted from high-quality B20 bronze. This alloy is preferred by professional manufacturers for its durability and rich, musical tonal properties.
How does the weight of the Stratus Crash affect its sound?: The cymbal features a thin weight. This allows for a more responsive feel, a deeper tone, and a much faster decay compared to medium or heavy weight crashes.
Is this cymbal suitable for studio recording?: Yes, it is highly suited for studio work. The quick, controlled attack and rapid decay ensure that it provides the necessary impact without creating excessive sustain that might clutter a mix.
What is the typical price for a Sabian 17" Stratus Crash?: In the UK market, the typical price range for this specific model is approximately £315. Prices may vary slightly based on the retailer and current availability.
How does the 17-inch size impact the performance compared to an 18-inch crash?: A 17-inch crash generally offers a slightly higher pitch and a faster response than an 18-inch version. It is often chosen for sharp accents where a larger cymbal might be too overpowering.
What music styles is the Stratus series designed for?: It is designed for modern music styles. Its versatility makes it appropriate for a wide range of genres where clear articulation and dynamic responsiveness are required.
Does the Stratus Crash have a bright or dark tone?: It delivers a bright yet balanced sound. While the initial attack is bright and cutting, it is supported by a warm musical spread and a deep tone.
How does it compare to the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash?: The Sabian Stratus 17" is smaller and typically brighter than the 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash. The Meinl model is known for an 'earthier' and shorter sound, while the Stratus provides a more traditional B20 shimmer with modern control.
Can the 17" Stratus Crash be used for live performances?: Absolutely. Its clear articulation and ability to integrate into various genres make it a reliable choice for live settings where dynamic control is necessary.
What is the 'decay' of this cymbal like?: The decay is described as rapid. This means the sound fades quickly after the initial strike, allowing for very clean and sharp accents within a drum fill.
Is the Sabian 17" Stratus Crash considered a professional-level cymbal?: Yes, it is a professional-grade instrument. This is reflected in its B20 bronze construction, complex sonic characteristics, and its typical market price point.
How does it differ from a low-volume cymbal pack?: Unlike low-volume cymbal packs designed for practice, the Stratus Crash is a full-volume professional cymbal. It provides a complete range of harmonics and projection intended for performance and recording.