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Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal

Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal

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Page last updated Oct 18, 2025

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Description

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Unleash the power of subtlety with the Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal. Crafted for drummers who value precision and control, this cymbal is perfect for low-volume performances where every note matters. Made from high-quality B20 bronze, a blend of 80% copper and 20% tin with traces of silver, this cymbal offers a bright and immediate response that adds a shimmering accent to your sound without overwhelming the mix.

Whether you’re rehearsing in a cozy studio or performing in an intimate venue, the XS20 dB Control Crash provides a restrained yet vibrant tone. Its extra-thin weight ensures quick decay, allowing for a crisp and clean crash that doesn't linger longer than needed. Sabian, known for their exceptional craftsmanship, has meticulously aged and hand-tested each cymbal in their legendary Vault, ensuring durability and consistent performance.

Beyond its technical prowess, the XS20 series has a vintage style that appeals to musicians who appreciate both tradition and innovation. It’s a cymbal that lets you express your musicality with finesse, making it a reliable choice for serious drummers seeking nuance in their sound.

Key Features:

Constructed from premium B20 bronze
Designed for low-volume environments
Extra-thin weight for fast response and short sustain
Bright sound with immediate presence
Aged and hand-tested in Sabian's legendary Vault
Vintage style for a classic aesthetic

Product specs

Brand	Sabian
Model	XS20 16" dB Control Crash Cymbal
Year	2003 - 2015
Made In	Canada
Categories	Crash Cymbals
Diameter	16"

FAQs

What material is the Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal made from?: The Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal is made from B20 bronze alloy, known for its durability and high-quality sound.
How does the Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal perform in low-volume settings?: The Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal is designed for dB control, making it suitable for low-volume settings where a controlled, quieter crash is needed.
Is the Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal suitable for all music genres?: While versatile, the Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal is particularly well-suited for genres requiring dynamic control, such as jazz, acoustic, and small ensemble performances.
What is the primary use of the Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal?: The Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal is primarily used to provide a controlled crash sound with reduced volume, ideal for practice, recording, and intimate live settings.
How does the Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal compare to other crash cymbals in terms of sound?: The Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal offers a balanced sound with a focused attack and quick decay, making it distinct from traditional crash cymbals that may have a louder and longer sustain.

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SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN 16" Xs20 dB Control Crash

SABIAN Cymbals

Sabian Xs20 dB Control Crash Cymbal 16"

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian 16" XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbal.

Comparisons

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Owners compare the XS20 crashes to Zildjian A's, noting a similar sound but not as full; they are considered better than B8 cymbals by some users.
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XS20 cymbals are likened to Zildjian A's in terms of sound but are noted to be less full and more shrill compared to higher-end models like Paiste Alphas.
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One user notes that Paiste Alphas, made from B8, sound incredible compared to XS20s which are criticized for their shrill and brittle texture.
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Use cases and applications

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XS20 cymbals are noted as suitable for small church settings when played with control, but may require soundproofing measures in larger spaces with hard surfaces.
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In larger rooms with hard surfaces, XS20 cymbals may require additional soundproofing measures to manage their bright sound effectively.
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In large rooms with hard surfaces, XS20 cymbals may not blend well without soundproofing, even when using lightening rods and thin cymbals to manage volume.
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User experience

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Some reports of XS20 cymbals breaking frequently, suggesting potential durability issues despite their affordability.
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Users appreciate the XS20's affordability and sound, but concerns about their "tinnyness" and potential fragility are prevalent, especially in thin models.
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Owners describe XS20 crashes as sounding decent but not exceptional, with some preferring them over B8s despite concerns about durability and tonal quality.
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Value and pricing

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XS20 cymbals are seen as a budget-friendly option compared to higher-tier brands like Zildjian and K Custom, making them appealing for those on a church budget.
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Build quality

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Some users report a collection of broken XS20 cymbals at rehearsal spaces, indicating potential durability issues despite their cost-effectiveness.
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Users report a small pile of broken XS20 cymbals at rehearsal spaces, indicating potential durability concerns with frequent breakage.
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Features and functionality

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The XS20 18" crash is noted for needing more energy to open up, making it less ideal for quiet settings but functional as a crash-ride.
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Critic Reviews

Sabian XS20 dB Control Crashes | Drum Gear Review

drumgearreview.com

Sabian's XS20 dB Control Crash Cymbals offer an impressive blend of professional sound characteristics and affordability. While they may not rival Sabian's top-tier options, these cymbals deliver a warm, rich tone with a crystalline shimmer, making them suitable for genres like jazz, R&B, and pop. The unique dB Control design excels in lower-volume settings, allowing for expressive playing without overpowering the mix. However, they can produce a slightly shrill overtone, particularly the 16” model, which might not be ideal for everyone. At under $150, these cymbals present remarkable value and versatility, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious drummers seeking quality sound. Hats off to Sabian for crafting such a well-made, cost-effective option.

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