What is the weight class of the Sabian HHX 22" Mike Portnoy Ride?

The cymbal is classified as a medium-heavy weight. This provides the necessary density for clear stick articulation and prevents the wash from becoming overwhelming during fast playing.

What type of hammering is used on this cymbal?

It features a hybrid hammering approach, merging both HH and HHX hammering techniques. This combination is intended to provide a mix of traditional warmth and modern projection.

Is the bell of the HHX Mike Portnoy Ride lathed?

No, the bell is unlathed and hammered. This design choice produces a bolder, more piercing attack compared to lathed bells, helping it cut through loud music.

What finish does this cymbal come in?

It is finished with a brilliant polish. This not only gives the cymbal a reflective, high-end look but also contributes to its clarity and high-frequency projection.

Can the 22" Mike Portnoy Ride be used as a crash?

Yes, despite its medium-heavy weight, the cymbal is designed to be crashable. The lathing from bow to edge allows for a controlled wash that opens up when struck on the edge.

How does the stick response compare to other rides?

The stick response is highly focused and articulate. It is specifically designed to remain clear during intricate patterns, avoiding the 'blur' sometimes found in thinner ride cymbals.

What genres is this ride best suited for?

It is ideal for rock, progressive metal, and fusion. Any genre requiring high precision, strong bell definition, and the ability to cut through a dense mix will benefit from its design.

What is the typical price for this model?

The typical price range for the Sabian HHX 22" Mike Portnoy Ride is approximately £662. This reflects its status as a professional signature series instrument.

Is the cymbal lathed on both sides?

Yes, it is lathed from the bow to the edge on both the top and bottom sides. This helps maintain a smooth, controlled sound across the surface of the cymbal.

How does the size affect its sound?

At 22 inches, the cymbal offers a larger surface area that provides a deeper pitch and more volume potential than smaller 20-inch or 21-inch rides.

Does this cymbal include any specific design influence from Mike Portnoy?

Yes, it was designed to merge Portnoy's favourite elements from the HH and HHX series. It focuses on the specific balance of power and versatility he requires for his complex playing style.

How does the bell sound compared to a standard HHX ride?

The bell is exceptionally strong and cutting due to the unlathed, hammered surface. It provides a more distinct, 'separated' sound from the rest of the cymbal than many standard lathed bells.

Gear article

Sabian HHX 22" Mike Portnoy Ride

The Sabian HHX 22" Mike Portnoy Ride is a signature series cymbal designed to provide a balance of articulate stick definition and powerful projection. Developed in collaboration with drummer Mike Portnoy, it incorporates hybrid hammering techniques to suit high-intensity musical environments.

See live prices

Overview

The Sabian HHX 22" Mike Portnoy Ride is a professional-grade cymbal engineered for drummers who require a blend of precision and power. It is constructed to handle complex rhythmic patterns while maintaining enough volume to cut through dense musical arrangements. The design reflects the specific requirements of Mike Portnoy, focusing on a clear, focused response that remains controllable even at higher volumes.

Design and Construction

This ride cymbal features a unique manufacturing process that merges elements from Sabian's HH and HHX lines. By utilising both HH and HHX hammering, the cymbal achieves a balanced sonic profile that captures both traditional warmth and modern 'cut'.

Key physical features include: * Medium-Heavy Weight: Provides the mass necessary for focused stick articulation. * Unlathed Hammered Bell: A bold, raw bell design that produces a distinct, cutting attack. * Lathed Surface: The cymbal is lathed from the bow to the edge on both sides, which helps manage the wash and ensures a smooth tonal transition. * Brilliant Finish: The polished surface enhances high-end clarity and visual presence.

Sound Character

The HHX Mike Portnoy Ride is characterised by its focused and articulate stick sound. Due to its medium-heavy weight, the stick response is immediate and clear, making it highly suitable for intricate grooves. While it maintains a smooth and controlled wash, the cymbal remains surprisingly crashable for a ride of its weight. The unlathed bell is a standout feature, providing a piercing, musical tone that ensures the ride stands out in a mix.

Target User

This cymbal is primarily designed for drummers playing progressive rock, metal, or fusion, where definition is paramount. It suits players who need a reliable workhorse that can transition between delicate stick work and powerful crashing. Its versatility makes it a solid choice for those looking for a singular ride cymbal that can cover various dynamic ranges without losing its core identity.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to other professional cymbals like the Masterwork Iris 21 Ride or the Paiste Giant Beat, the HHX Portnoy Ride offers a more modern, focused projection. While cymbals such as the Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Thin Crash focus on trashy, dark textures, the HHX Portnoy Ride prioritises clarity and bell definition. It offers more weight and power than light hi-hats like the UFIP Class or Bionic series, functioning as a primary anchor for a drum kit rather than an effects-heavy accent.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the weight class of the Sabian HHX 22" Mike Portnoy Ride?: The cymbal is classified as a medium-heavy weight. This provides the necessary density for clear stick articulation and prevents the wash from becoming overwhelming during fast playing.
What type of hammering is used on this cymbal?: It features a hybrid hammering approach, merging both HH and HHX hammering techniques. This combination is intended to provide a mix of traditional warmth and modern projection.
Is the bell of the HHX Mike Portnoy Ride lathed?: No, the bell is unlathed and hammered. This design choice produces a bolder, more piercing attack compared to lathed bells, helping it cut through loud music.
What finish does this cymbal come in?: It is finished with a brilliant polish. This not only gives the cymbal a reflective, high-end look but also contributes to its clarity and high-frequency projection.
Can the 22" Mike Portnoy Ride be used as a crash?: Yes, despite its medium-heavy weight, the cymbal is designed to be crashable. The lathing from bow to edge allows for a controlled wash that opens up when struck on the edge.
How does the stick response compare to other rides?: The stick response is highly focused and articulate. It is specifically designed to remain clear during intricate patterns, avoiding the 'blur' sometimes found in thinner ride cymbals.
What genres is this ride best suited for?: It is ideal for rock, progressive metal, and fusion. Any genre requiring high precision, strong bell definition, and the ability to cut through a dense mix will benefit from its design.
What is the typical price for this model?: The typical price range for the Sabian HHX 22" Mike Portnoy Ride is approximately £662. This reflects its status as a professional signature series instrument.
Is the cymbal lathed on both sides?: Yes, it is lathed from the bow to the edge on both the top and bottom sides. This helps maintain a smooth, controlled sound across the surface of the cymbal.
How does the size affect its sound?: At 22 inches, the cymbal offers a larger surface area that provides a deeper pitch and more volume potential than smaller 20-inch or 21-inch rides.
Does this cymbal include any specific design influence from Mike Portnoy?: Yes, it was designed to merge Portnoy's favourite elements from the HH and HHX series. It focuses on the specific balance of power and versatility he requires for his complex playing style.
How does the bell sound compared to a standard HHX ride?: The bell is exceptionally strong and cutting due to the unlathed, hammered surface. It provides a more distinct, 'separated' sound from the rest of the cymbal than many standard lathed bells.