What is the primary material used in the HHX Complex Aero Crash?

The cymbal is constructed from Sabian's high-quality B20 bronze alloy. This material is known for its durability and wide-ranging musical frequencies.

What is the purpose of the holes in the Aero design?

The holes, or 'Aero' design, are intended to provide a bright, lively attack and a faster decay. They add a 'trashy' or white-noise element to the cymbal's natural dark tone.

How does the bell design affect the sound?

The cymbal features a raw bell design. This helps to keep the overtones focused and provides a distinct, clear fundamental note compared to fully lathed bells.

Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?

Yes, its dark and warm tones make it highly suitable for jazz. The HHX Complex series is known for its richness, which complements lower-volume musical settings.

Can the 18" Complex Aero Crash handle heavy rock playing?

Yes, the manufacturer specifies that it can accommodate both light and heavy playing styles. Its lively attack ensures it remains audible even in louder musical environments.

What is the typical price range for this model?

In the UK market, this cymbal is typically priced at approximately £428. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.

How does this cymbal differ from a standard HHX Evolution crash?

Unlike the Evolution series, the Complex Aero Crash uses proprietary 'Complex' hammering and the 'Aero' hole pattern. This results in a darker, more textured sound with a shorter sustain.

Does the cymbal come in other sizes?

While this specific article focuses on the 18" model, the HHX Complex and Aero series typically feature various sizes. The 18" is considered a versatile medium size for most setups.

What kind of hammering is used on this cymbal?

Sabian employs proprietary hammering techniques specific to the HHX Complex line. This process creates a multifaceted surface that produces a rich, dark, and 'complex' sound profile.

Is this a good choice for a first upgrade?

Yes, the manufacturer recommends it for those looking to upgrade their current setup. It offers a professional sonic palette that can significantly enhance the sound of a drum kit.

How does the decay of the Aero Crash compare to a standard crash?

The decay is generally faster than a standard solid crash of the same weight. The perforations in the metal cause the vibrations to dissipate more quickly.

Can this cymbal be used as a ride?

While primarily a crash, its 18" size and raw bell allow for occasional light riding. However, it is specifically designed to excel as a versatile crash cymbal.

Gear article

Sabian HHX 18" Complex Aero Crash

The Sabian HHX 18" Complex Aero Crash is a professional-grade cymbal that integrates the perforated 'Aero' design with the manufacturing techniques of the HHX Complex series. It is designed to offer a dark, rich sound profile with a fast attack and high versatility across various musical genres.

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Overview

The Sabian HHX 18" Complex Aero Crash represents a fusion of two distinct Sabian design philosophies. By combining the 'Aero' hole-pattern design—traditionally used to increase white noise and speed up decay—with the 'Complex' series' sophisticated hammering, Sabian has created a cymbal that balances trashy textures with musical warmth. The cymbal features a raw bell and a proprietary hammering pattern that allows for a wide dynamic range.

Design and Construction

This cymbal utilizes Sabian's proprietary hammering techniques, which are central to the HHX Complex line's identity. The most striking visual and functional feature is the 'Aero' perforation pattern, consisting of multiple small holes drilled into the bow. These holes serve to reduce the mass of the cymbal and interrupt the vibration, resulting in a quicker response. Additionally, the raw bell design contributes to the complexity of the overtones and provides a solid, grounded fundamental tone to support the shimmering highs.

Sonic Characteristics

The sound of the 18" Complex Aero Crash is characterised by a bright and lively initial attack followed by warm, even tones. Despite the aggressive appearance of the Aero holes, the cymbal maintains a rich, dark character consistent with the HHX line. It produces a broad frequency range, ensuring it does not sound one-dimensional. The combination of the raw bell and the perforated bow results in a 'complex' wash that is both trashy and refined, suitable for drummers who require a crash that sits between a traditional thin crash and an effects cymbal.

Suitability and Versatility

Sabian has designed this cymbal to accommodate a wide variety of playing styles, from light, articulate touch to heavy hitting. Its fast decay makes it useful in studio settings where bleed must be controlled, while its lively attack ensures it can cut through in live performances. It is particularly well-suited for drummers experimenting with new genres or those looking to upgrade from standard crash cymbals to something with more character and tonal depth.

Market Comparison

Within the landscape of high-end cymbals, the HHX 18" Complex Aero Crash competes with other dark and textured models. Compared to the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash or the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash, the Sabian model offers a more specific 'Aero' response due to its hole pattern. While it is more expensive than entry-level options like the Gear4Music Low Volume series or Meinl HCS hi-hats, it provides the professional-grade B20 bronze performance expected at its £428 price point.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used in the HHX Complex Aero Crash?: The cymbal is constructed from Sabian's high-quality B20 bronze alloy. This material is known for its durability and wide-ranging musical frequencies.
What is the purpose of the holes in the Aero design?: The holes, or 'Aero' design, are intended to provide a bright, lively attack and a faster decay. They add a 'trashy' or white-noise element to the cymbal's natural dark tone.
How does the bell design affect the sound?: The cymbal features a raw bell design. This helps to keep the overtones focused and provides a distinct, clear fundamental note compared to fully lathed bells.
Is this cymbal suitable for jazz?: Yes, its dark and warm tones make it highly suitable for jazz. The HHX Complex series is known for its richness, which complements lower-volume musical settings.
Can the 18" Complex Aero Crash handle heavy rock playing?: Yes, the manufacturer specifies that it can accommodate both light and heavy playing styles. Its lively attack ensures it remains audible even in louder musical environments.
What is the typical price range for this model?: In the UK market, this cymbal is typically priced at approximately £428. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
How does this cymbal differ from a standard HHX Evolution crash?: Unlike the Evolution series, the Complex Aero Crash uses proprietary 'Complex' hammering and the 'Aero' hole pattern. This results in a darker, more textured sound with a shorter sustain.
Does the cymbal come in other sizes?: While this specific article focuses on the 18" model, the HHX Complex and Aero series typically feature various sizes. The 18" is considered a versatile medium size for most setups.
What kind of hammering is used on this cymbal?: Sabian employs proprietary hammering techniques specific to the HHX Complex line. This process creates a multifaceted surface that produces a rich, dark, and 'complex' sound profile.
Is this a good choice for a first upgrade?: Yes, the manufacturer recommends it for those looking to upgrade their current setup. It offers a professional sonic palette that can significantly enhance the sound of a drum kit.
How does the decay of the Aero Crash compare to a standard crash?: The decay is generally faster than a standard solid crash of the same weight. The perforations in the metal cause the vibrations to dissipate more quickly.
Can this cymbal be used as a ride?: While primarily a crash, its 18" size and raw bell allow for occasional light riding. However, it is specifically designed to excel as a versatile crash cymbal.