Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$239.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (9)
$239.99
Amazon
4.6 (14)
$239.99
Reverb
$200.13 New
$165.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (8)
$239.99
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$239.99
Gear4Music
£348.99

Average Price: $224

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the realm of percussive innovation with the Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal, a marvel that stands out in the vast ocean of cymbals with its distinctive sound and design. Not just another addition to your setup, this cymbal brings a fresh flavor of sound, thanks to its unique three-layer structure. Imagine combining the quick, sharp attack of white noise with the rhythmic precision of a top-tier percussion instrument; that's what the Sabian Chopper offers.

Designed with the adventurous drummer and percussionist in mind, it features two propeller-like bronze discs, riveted loosely to a solid base disc. This configuration is not just for show; it's the secret behind the Chopper's ability to produce those tight, focused bursts of sound that can cut through any mix. Whether you're accenting beats or laying down a rhythmic foundation, this cymbal brings both versatility and a raw, edgy tone to your performances.

Endorsed by renowned artists like Mike Portnoy, Will Calhoun, and Rodney Howard, the Chopper doesn't just perform; it inspires. It seamlessly integrates into any drum or percussion setup, offering a novel sonic texture that can replace an X-hat or add a new dimension laid over a snare. Covered by Sabian's warranty, the Chopper is not just an instrument but an investment in your musical journey. Embrace the unconventional and let the Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal take your sound to uncharted territories.

Key Features:

  • Unique three-layer design featuring two propeller-like bronze discs
  • Delivers quick, tightly focused white noise accents and rhythms
  • Versatile addition to drum and percussion setups, capable of replacing an X-hat or enhancing a snare with a techno slap
  • Endorsed by professional drummers Mike Portnoy, Will Calhoun, and Rodney Howard
  • Comes with Sabian's quality warranty, ensuring peace of mind

Product specs

Type Chopper
Size 12''
Weight Medium Heavy
Finish Bronze
Material B8
Sound White Noise
Sustain Short

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal?

The Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal produces a unique "white noise" effect, ideal for adding texture and dynamic accents to your drumming. Its sound is characterized by a short sustain and a sharp, cutting presence.

Is the Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal suitable for all music genres?

This cymbal is particularly well-suited for genres that benefit from special effects, such as rock, fusion, and experimental music, due to its distinctive white noise sound.

What material is the Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal made from?

The Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal is crafted from B8 bronze, which contributes to its bright and cutting sound character.

How does the size of the Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal affect its sound?

The 12-inch size of the Sabian Chopper Cymbal provides a compact, focused sound with quick decay, making it perfect for fast accents and effects without overwhelming the overall mix.

What is the weight of the Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal and how does it influence its performance?

The Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal is medium heavy, which helps produce a robust, cutting sound while maintaining control over its short sustain for precise, dynamic playing.

Richie's Drum Garage

Richie's Drum Garage

Sabian 10" and 12" Chopper Cymbals - Sound/Video Demo

Video thumbnail for Sabian 10" and 12" Chopper Cymbals - Sound/Video Demo by Richie's Drum Garage

Sabian 10" and 12" Chopper Cymbals - Sound/Video Demo

Richie's Drum Garage

Richie's Drum Garage

Video thumbnail for Sabian 12" Chopper Cymbal - 1785g (CH12-1052320EE) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 12" Chopper Cymbal - 1785g (CH12-1052320EE)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Sabian 12" Chopper Cymbal - 1801g (CH12-1062216B) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 12" Chopper Cymbal - 1801g (CH12-1062216B)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Testing Sabian Chopper 10 & 12 by Brane Stubljar

Testing Sabian Chopper 10 & 12

Brane Stubljar

Brane Stubljar

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique, syncopated sound ideal for creative drummers

  • Adds distinct color to hi-hat patterns or stands alone

  • Simulates electronic effects acoustically, expanding sound possibilities

  • Cost-effective alternative to stacking multiple cymbals

  • Offers a unique sound profile not commonly found

  • Encourages creative exploration and rhythm experimentation

CONS

  • Sustain is shorter than expected, limiting sound duration

  • Lower volume might not suit all playing environments

  • May not be suitable for all drummers' tastes or styles

  • Some may find it overpriced relative to personal expectations

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal.

Features and functionality

  • The Sabian 12" Chopper is noted for its unique blend of splash and china-like qualities, offering versatile effects options.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users prefer the Sabian 12" Chopper over traditional splash sizes for its larger, fuller sound, while others find it too large compared to a 10" splash.

    Source
  • A user compared the Sabian 12" Chopper favorably with smaller splashes, emphasizing its capacity to deliver a unique, trashy sound that differs from traditional splashes.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for those seeking a pronounced, cutting accent in their cymbal setup, providing a distinct sound that stands out in a mix.

    Source
  • It was noted that the Sabian 12" Chopper can suit musical setups requiring multiple distinctive cymbal sounds, complementing other splashes for varied sonic textures.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners who upgraded to a 12" Chopper from smaller splashes report increased satisfaction with its impact and presence in live performances.

    Source
  • The Sabian 12" Chopper can be used effectively alongside a Sabian 10” HHX Complex Aero Splash and a Sabian 7” HHX Complex Splash for a diverse range of effects.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Experimenting with stacking the Sabian 12" Chopper with other cymbals can enhance its tonal variety, offering more diverse sound possibilities in live performances.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Roy Mayorga uses Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal

Roy Mayorga

Drummer

Soulfly

...
Verified via Modern Drummer Magazine

Listed in his live setup on Modern Drummer Magazine

See how Morgan Rose uses Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal

Morgan Rose

Drummer

Sevendust

...
Verified via Facebook

Morgan Rose uses a Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal, as evidenced by a video from Sabian on Facebook showing him soundchecking "Shine" off Sevendust’s album Animosity with this cymbal as part of his setup.

Album Usage

The Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Sabian 12 inch Chopper Cymbal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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