Who designed the Sabian HHX Fierce Crash?

The cymbal was designed in direct collaboration with Jojo Mayer, a legendary drummer known for his technical proficiency and work in the electronic and jazz-fusion genres.

What is the weight of the 18" Fierce Crash?

It is classified as a thin weight cymbal, which allows it to open up quickly and produce an explosive sound with minimal force.

What kind of finish does this model have?

This specific model features a Natural finish, which helps maintain the complex, raw overtones of the bronze alloy.

How does the bell differ from standard crashes?

The Fierce Crash features a large raw bell. This unlathed surface provides increased volume and much clearer stick definition than a typical integrated bell.

Is the sound of this cymbal dark or bright?

The Sabian HHX Fierce Crash produces a dark tone, which is a signature characteristic of the HHX series' 'Tone Projection' design.

Does the Fierce Crash sound like a China cymbal?

Yes, it is designed to produce raw, trashy overtones similar to those found in Chinese-style cymbals, while maintaining the shape and sustain of a crash.

What musical styles best suit the HHX Fierce Crash?

It is ideal for modern musical styles, including electronic, jazz, fusion, and any setting requiring a dark, cutting crash sound.

Can the 18" Fierce Crash be used for stick patterns?

Yes, thanks to its large raw bell and thin construction, it offers excellent stick definition, making it versatile enough for light riding or rhythmic patterns.

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

The typical price range for the Sabian HHX 18" Fierce Crash is approximately GBP 451.

How does it cut through a loud mix?

Despite its dark tone, its explosive response and unique harmonic profile allow it to cut through high-volume musical settings effectively.

What are some comparable cymbals from other brands?

Comparable models include the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash and the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash, which also focus on dry, dark textures.

Is the Sabian HHX Fierce Crash durable?

As a high-quality professional cymbal from the HHX line, it is built to Sabian's rigorous standards, though its thin weight requires proper striking technique to ensure longevity.

Gear article

Sabian HHX 18" Fierce Crash Cymbal (Natural Finish)

The Sabian HHX 18" Fierce Crash is a high-quality, professional-grade cymbal developed in collaboration with drumming legend Jojo Mayer. It is characterised by its thin weight, raw bell, and a dark, explosive tone that blends traditional crash qualities with the complex overtones of a Chinese-style cymbal.

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Overview and Development

The Sabian HHX 18" Fierce Crash is a signature percussion instrument born from a collaborative design process between Sabian's master artisans and the renowned drummer Jojo Mayer. Part of the HHX series, it represents a modern approach to cymbal making that prioritises dark tones and high projection. The 'Fierce' designation reflects its aggressive yet musical character, designed to meet the rigorous demands of technically proficient players.

Key Features and Design

Constructed with a thin weight profile, the Fierce Crash is designed for immediate response and a full, explosive bloom. A defining physical characteristic is its large, raw bell, which remains unlathed to provide enhanced volume and distinct stick definition compared to standard crashes. The natural finish contributes to its complex harmonic profile, ensuring that the cymbal's raw overtones are preserved rather than dampened by heavy polishing.

Sonic Character

The sonic identity of the HHX 18" Fierce Crash is often described as a hybrid between a traditional crash and a China cymbal. While it provides the shimmer and wash expected of an 18-inch crash, it is complimented by dry, trashy overtones that allow it to cut through dense musical mixes. The combination of the thin edge and the heavy raw bell creates a versatile instrument capable of both delicate accents and high-volume projection.

Musical Applications

Due to its unique tonal balance, the Fierce Crash is exceptionally versatile. It is particularly well-suited for modern styles including drum and bass, jazz fusion, and contemporary rock. Its ability to provide clear stick definition on the bell also allows it to function as an alternative ride or effect cymbal in smaller kit setups. It is ideal for drummers seeking a 'trashy' sound that does not sacrifice the sustain or body of a premium B20 bronze crash.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to alternatives like the Meinl Byzance 19" Extra Dry Thin Crash or the Istanbul Agop 19" Lenny White Epoch Crash, the Sabian Fierce Crash offers a more focused, 'fierce' attack with a specific emphasis on the raw bell's clarity. While options like the Paiste Giant Beat 14" Hi-Hats or UFIP Class Series serve more traditional roles, the Fierce Crash occupies a niche for players looking for 'dry-yet-explosive' textures that bridge the gap between standard crash models and effects cymbals.

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Frequently asked questions

Who designed the Sabian HHX Fierce Crash?: The cymbal was designed in direct collaboration with Jojo Mayer, a legendary drummer known for his technical proficiency and work in the electronic and jazz-fusion genres.
What is the weight of the 18" Fierce Crash?: It is classified as a thin weight cymbal, which allows it to open up quickly and produce an explosive sound with minimal force.
What kind of finish does this model have?: This specific model features a Natural finish, which helps maintain the complex, raw overtones of the bronze alloy.
How does the bell differ from standard crashes?: The Fierce Crash features a large raw bell. This unlathed surface provides increased volume and much clearer stick definition than a typical integrated bell.
Is the sound of this cymbal dark or bright?: The Sabian HHX Fierce Crash produces a dark tone, which is a signature characteristic of the HHX series' 'Tone Projection' design.
Does the Fierce Crash sound like a China cymbal?: Yes, it is designed to produce raw, trashy overtones similar to those found in Chinese-style cymbals, while maintaining the shape and sustain of a crash.
What musical styles best suit the HHX Fierce Crash?: It is ideal for modern musical styles, including electronic, jazz, fusion, and any setting requiring a dark, cutting crash sound.
Can the 18" Fierce Crash be used for stick patterns?: Yes, thanks to its large raw bell and thin construction, it offers excellent stick definition, making it versatile enough for light riding or rhythmic patterns.
What is the typical price for this cymbal in the UK?: The typical price range for the Sabian HHX 18" Fierce Crash is approximately GBP 451.
How does it cut through a loud mix?: Despite its dark tone, its explosive response and unique harmonic profile allow it to cut through high-volume musical settings effectively.
What are some comparable cymbals from other brands?: Comparable models include the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash and the Istanbul Agop Lenny White Epoch Crash, which also focus on dry, dark textures.
Is the Sabian HHX Fierce Crash durable?: As a high-quality professional cymbal from the HHX line, it is built to Sabian's rigorous standards, though its thin weight requires proper striking technique to ensure longevity.