What makes the 'Fast' version different from the regular AAX X-Plosion crash?

The Fast version is significantly thinner than the regular X-Plosion series. This reduction in weight allows for a more immediate attack and a much quicker decay, meaning the sound does not linger as long.

What is the finish on this specific 17-inch model?

This model features a Brilliant finish. This involves a high-buffing process that gives the cymbal a mirror-like shine and a slightly brighter, more shimmering top-end sound.

How does the 17-inch size compare to other Fast Crashes in the AAX series?

The 17-inch model sounds fuller, louder, and slightly darker than the smaller Fast Crashes in the same series. It provides more presence and volume while maintaining the rapid response typical of the line.

Can this cymbal be used for quiet musical styles?

Yes, it is highly versatile. Because it responds quickly even to subtle strokes, it sounds beautiful in quiet situations and does not require heavy hitting to open up.

Is the Sabian AAX 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash suitable for rock music?

Absolutely. Its bright and cutting attack allows it to be heard clearly in loud modern musical styles, including rock and pop, despite its thin profile.

What is the typical price for this cymbal in the UK?

The typical price for the Sabian AAX 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash in a Brilliant finish is approximately GBP 379.

What is the main advantage of a quick decay in a crash cymbal?

A quick decay allows the cymbal to provide a sharp accent and then 'get out of the way' quickly. This prevents the sound from washing over other instruments or interfering with complex drum fills.

How does the AAX series generally differ from other Sabian lines?

The AAX series is designed for modern applications, featuring 'Dynamic Focus' technology that ensures the cymbal maintains its tone and clarity across all volume levels.

Is this cymbal a good choice for recording?

Yes, it is often preferred for recording because its fast decay reduces bleed into other microphones. The bright attack ensures the accent is clear in the mix without requiring excessive EQ.

Does the 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash have a wide dynamic range?

Yes, it features a wide expressive dynamic range. This means it can transition smoothly from very soft, delicate playing to high-volume accents without losing its character.

What alloy is used for the Sabian AAX series?

Like most professional Sabian cymbals, the AAX series is crafted from high-quality B20 bronze, which is a blend of 80% copper and 20% tin.

How does the sound character of this cymbal compare to the Meinl Extra Dry series?

The Sabian AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash is much brighter and more cutting than a Meinl Extra Dry crash. While the Meinl is dark and earthy, the Sabian is designed for a modern, brilliant, and 'biting' sound.

Gear article

Sabian AAX 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash Cymbal

The Sabian AAX 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash is a high-performance cymbal featuring a Brilliant finish and a thin profile designed for immediate response. Part of the modern AAX series, it is engineered for a bright, cutting attack followed by a smooth, rapid decay, making it suitable for a wide variety of contemporary musical styles.

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Overview

The Sabian AAX 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash is a specialized entry within the popular AAX line, designed specifically for drummers who require an aggressive, biting attack that does not linger. Constructed from B20 bronze, this model distinguishes itself from the standard X-Plosion series by its significantly thinner weight and faster response times. The Brilliant finish adds a polished aesthetic and contributes to the shimmering, high-frequency focus of the cymbal's tonal character.

Design and Construction

The construction of the 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash focuses on dynamic sensitivity and speed. Because it is thinner than standard AAX crashes, the cymbal requires less physical force to activate the metal, allowing it to respond even to subtle strokes. The 17-inch diameter provides a middle ground in the Fast Crash sub-series, offering a sound that is fuller, louder, and slightly darker than smaller models while retaining the 'fast' characteristics of the design.

Sound Character and Performance

The primary sonic trait of this cymbal is its immediate 'explosion' of sound followed by a quick decay. The attack is described as bright and cutting, capable of piercing through high-volume stage mixes. Despite its capacity for volume, the cymbal maintains a wide expressive dynamic range. This allows it to sound articulate and musical in quiet settings, whereas heavier cymbals might sound choked or dull at lower velocities.

Versatility and Musical Application

Due to its balanced size and rapid response, the 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash is highly adaptable. It is designed for modern musical styles, ranging from pop and session work to high-energy rock. Its ability to 'get out of the way quickly' makes it an excellent choice for drummers who play fast, intricate patterns or for recording situations where excessive cymbal wash needs to be minimised.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Sabian range, this model is faster and thinner than the standard X-Plosion Crash. When compared to the industry at large, it occupies a space between ultra-dry cymbals, such as the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, and more traditional, sustained crashes. While it lacks the extreme darkness of an Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash, it offers a more consistent and modern brilliance than vintage-voiced cymbals like the Paiste Giant Beat series.

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Frequently asked questions

What makes the 'Fast' version different from the regular AAX X-Plosion crash?: The Fast version is significantly thinner than the regular X-Plosion series. This reduction in weight allows for a more immediate attack and a much quicker decay, meaning the sound does not linger as long.
What is the finish on this specific 17-inch model?: This model features a Brilliant finish. This involves a high-buffing process that gives the cymbal a mirror-like shine and a slightly brighter, more shimmering top-end sound.
How does the 17-inch size compare to other Fast Crashes in the AAX series?: The 17-inch model sounds fuller, louder, and slightly darker than the smaller Fast Crashes in the same series. It provides more presence and volume while maintaining the rapid response typical of the line.
Can this cymbal be used for quiet musical styles?: Yes, it is highly versatile. Because it responds quickly even to subtle strokes, it sounds beautiful in quiet situations and does not require heavy hitting to open up.
Is the Sabian AAX 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash suitable for rock music?: Absolutely. Its bright and cutting attack allows it to be heard clearly in loud modern musical styles, including rock and pop, despite its thin profile.
What is the typical price for this cymbal in the UK?: The typical price for the Sabian AAX 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash in a Brilliant finish is approximately GBP 379.
What is the main advantage of a quick decay in a crash cymbal?: A quick decay allows the cymbal to provide a sharp accent and then 'get out of the way' quickly. This prevents the sound from washing over other instruments or interfering with complex drum fills.
How does the AAX series generally differ from other Sabian lines?: The AAX series is designed for modern applications, featuring 'Dynamic Focus' technology that ensures the cymbal maintains its tone and clarity across all volume levels.
Is this cymbal a good choice for recording?: Yes, it is often preferred for recording because its fast decay reduces bleed into other microphones. The bright attack ensures the accent is clear in the mix without requiring excessive EQ.
Does the 17" X-Plosion Fast Crash have a wide dynamic range?: Yes, it features a wide expressive dynamic range. This means it can transition smoothly from very soft, delicate playing to high-volume accents without losing its character.
What alloy is used for the Sabian AAX series?: Like most professional Sabian cymbals, the AAX series is crafted from high-quality B20 bronze, which is a blend of 80% copper and 20% tin.
How does the sound character of this cymbal compare to the Meinl Extra Dry series?: The Sabian AAX X-Plosion Fast Crash is much brighter and more cutting than a Meinl Extra Dry crash. While the Meinl is dark and earthy, the Sabian is designed for a modern, brilliant, and 'biting' sound.