Gear article

Yamaha HHS3 Crosstown Lightweight Hi-Hat Stand

The Yamaha HHS3 Crosstown is a professional-grade hi-hat stand designed for maximum portability through a lightweight aluminium construction. Part of Yamaha’s Crosstown Advanced Lightweight Hardware series, it offers a balance of stability and reduced weight for touring drummers.

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Overview

The Yamaha HHS3 Crosstown hi-hat stand represents a shift in modern drum hardware design, moving away from heavy double-braced steel toward high-grade aluminium. It is specifically engineered for drummers who require a mobile setup without sacrificing the reliability associated with standard professional gear. The stand utilizes a sleek, sand-blasted finish that resists fingerprints and corrosion while maintaining a modern aesthetic.

Design and Key Features

The primary innovation of the HHS3 is its almost entirely aluminium construction. To ensure structural integrity, Yamaha employs channel-track bracing on the legs. This design provides a high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing the stand to remain stable under vigorous foot technique. Key mechanical features include:

  • Channel-lock legs: These provide a secure base that is easy to fold and deploy.
  • Non-slip rubber feet: Designed to minimise vibrations during play and prevent the stand from 'creeping' across the floor.
  • Micro-adjustable height: The lightweight tubing allows for incredibly easy height and angle adjustments compared to heavier steel alternatives.

Sound and Character

While hardware is primarily functional, the HHS3 affects the performance experience through its vibration management. The rubber feet and aluminium composition are tuned to minimise unwanted mechanical noise and sympathetic vibrations. This results in a clean response from the hi-hat cymbals, allowing the natural tone of the brass or bronze to remain prominent without metallic interference from the stand itself.

Suitability and Performance

The HHS3 is best suited for the 'drummer on the move.' It is an ideal solution for jazz players, session musicians, and touring professionals who frequently transport their own equipment. While it is robust enough for most genres, those playing extremely heavy metal may still prefer the mass of traditional steel stands. However, for the majority of gigging scenarios, it offers a significant reduction in load-in weight without the fragility often found in vintage-style flat-base stands.

Comparisons

Compared to standard models like the Yamaha HS740A, the HHS3 is significantly lighter, trading steel mass for aluminium efficiency. Unlike the Pearl Mini Closed Hi-Hat Holder, which is a fixed mounting solution, the HHS3 is a full-function pedal-operated stand. While high-end thrones like the Sonor 6000 Series or Dixon PSN-12 focus on player comfort, the HHS3 focuses on the logistics of the kit as a whole, often being paired with the full Crosstown hardware set to revolutionise the weight of a drummer's hardware bag.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the main material used in the Yamaha HHS3?
The stand is made almost entirely from lightweight aluminium. This choice provides a significant weight reduction compared to traditional steel stands while maintaining structural durability.
What type of leg bracing does the HHS3 use?
It features channel-track bracing on the legs. This specific design is intended to offer the stability of braced legs without the heavy weight of solid metal bars.
Does the stand slide during play?
The stand is equipped with non-slip rubber feet. These are designed to grip various floor surfaces and minimise vibrations, which helps prevent the stand from slipping.
Can I adjust the height of the HHS3 easily?
Yes, the use of aluminium and channel-track bracing makes height and angle adjustments incredibly easy. The lightweight nature of the tubes allows them to glide smoothly during setup.
Is the HHS3 durable enough for touring?
Yes, Yamaha designed the Crosstown series to maintain the durability and stability expected from their professional hardware. It is built to withstand the rigours of regular transport.
How does the weight compare to standard hi-hat stands?
The HHS3 is designed to be the lightest possible weight for a professional stand. It is significantly lighter than standard models like the Yamaha HS740A.
Is the HHS3 part of a larger set?
Yes, it is part of the Crosstown hardware series. Drummers can purchase the HHS3 individually or as part of a complete lightweight hardware set to further reduce their gear weight.
What is the typical price for this stand?
The typical price range for the Yamaha HHS3 Crosstown hi-hat stand is approximately GBP 150. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.
Who is the target audience for the Crosstown series?
It is designed for 'drummers on the move' who need to transport their kits frequently. It is especially popular with gigging professionals who want to reduce the weight of their hardware bags.
Does the stand include a clutch?
Standard retail versions of the HHS3 include a hi-hat clutch, allowing it to be used immediately out of the box. The clutch is designed to integrate seamlessly with the aluminium pull-rod.
How does aluminium affect the stand's vibration?
The aluminium construction, combined with specific rubber feet, helps to minimise vibrations. This prevents the stand from rattling or contributing unwanted noise to the drum setup.
Are the legs adjustable for tight spaces?
The channel-lock legs can be adjusted to accommodate different footprints. This flexibility makes it easier to fit the stand into crowded stage setups alongside other stands.