Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $296
Standard/Professional
$200
$501+
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Budget
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Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash, a cymbal that offers a blend of modern efficiency, powerful presence, and exceptional sensitivity. This crash cymbal from Sabian's AAX series impresses with its rich, shimmering tones and clear, clean sound. Its streamlined design allows it to deliver penetrating definition that will cut through any mix, whether you're in the studio or on stage.
The Auto-Focus Response feature is a key aspect of this cymbal. Whether you tap lightly with your finger or thrash with a stick, this feature maximizes sensitivity, equalizes high and low pitch levels, and filters out conflicting overtones for a purer sound. The Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash offers an ultra-fast response and punchy accents at all volume levels, making it suitable for all music styles.
Crafted from durable B20 bronze, this cymbal is not only musical but also designed to withstand rigorous playing. Each cymbal is aged and hand-tested in Sabian's legendary vault, ensuring top quality and consistent performance.
Key Features:
- 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash Cymbal
- Auto-Focus Response feature for maximized sensitivity and balanced pitch levels
- Provides clear, clean, and defined cymbal sound
- Offers amazing responsiveness and punchy accents at all volume levels
- Suitable for all music styles
- Crafted from durable B20 bronze
- Aged and hand-tested in Sabian's vault
- Modern style with a bright sound
- Brilliant finish.
Product specs
| Type | Crash |
| Size | 18" |
| Weight | Thin |
| Material | B20 |
| Finish | Brilliant |
| Sound | Bright |
| Pitch | Medium/High |
| Balance | Attack |
FAQs
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What type of sound can I expect from the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash?
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The Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash delivers a bright and explosive sound with a medium/high pitch, making it ideal for cutting through loud mixes in live settings.
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Is the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash suitable for rock music?
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Yes, the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash is well-suited for rock music, thanks to its bright, powerful sound and quick attack that can cut through the mix.
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What material is the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash made from?
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The Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash is crafted from B20 bronze, known for its durability and high-quality sound characteristics.
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How does the brilliant finish affect the sound of the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash?
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The brilliant finish on the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash enhances its bright tonal qualities and provides a visually striking appearance.
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Is the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash suitable for beginners?
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While the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash offers professional-quality sound, its bright and explosive characteristics can be appreciated by both beginners and experienced drummers alike.
Videos
Austin Bazaar
Sabian AAX 18" X-Plosion Crash Cymbal Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Big, bold sound perfect for rock and metal music
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Excellent tone with a bright initial explosion and darker decay
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Versatile for various music styles, from jazz to hardcore
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Outstanding bell sound with a crisp, clear punch
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Quick response and sustain for expressive playing
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Blends well with other cymbals for a cohesive setup
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Rugged construction for long-term durability
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Shimmering, sweet sound with depth and body
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Great value for the quality and sound offered
CONS
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Prone to developing cracks with frequent use
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Scratchy lathing that wears down stick tips
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Low volume dynamics may not showcase full character
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Can be clangy at lower volumes
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Some overtones may get lost in a mix
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash.
User experience
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Owners appreciate the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash for its volume and sustain, particularly beneficial for playing in loud band settings.
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One user expressed a preference for a larger model after purchasing the 18”, suggesting that size might influence satisfaction depending on personal preference.
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A heavy player can naturally activate a thicker cymbal, while softer hitters may struggle to achieve the same sound without adjusting their technique.
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Comparisons
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The 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash is favored over a 16" HHX Evolution Crash for its superior volume, making it a better choice for louder performances.
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Some early 2000s AAX X-Plosion crashes are noted to be as dark as the HHX series, offering a comparable sound quality at potentially better value.
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Compared to heavy cymbals, medium and thin versions offer better dynamic range and can encourage good playing habits by allowing easier activation without heavy strikes.
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Value and pricing
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It's noted that finding this cymbal at a reduced price on platforms like Facebook Marketplace is considered a lucky deal, enhancing its value proposition.
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Use cases and applications
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In the October 2016 DRUM! magazine, Jen's set is broken down and her equipment is listed.
It's a video from Cobus Potgieter on your own Youtube channel. The item can be seen 0:18 into this video and in others moments during video.
In the video titled "Virgil Donati - Asia - Tour Kit Rundown" by Modern Drummer Official, at 5:35, Virgil Donati can be seen incorporating a Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash cymbal into his setup.
In an Instagram post, Blake Richardson discusses using the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash cymbal while recording at the legendary Basement Studio.
Kevin Kaine has incorporated the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash into his setup, as shown in a photo shared by thecandykaine on Instagram.
I found a photo of his drum kit in an interview. On it you can see that he plays this cymbal.
Morgan Rose, drummer for Sevendust, is confirmed to use the Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash. This is supported by a video from Sabian's official Facebook page, where Rose is seen soundchecking "Shine" from Sevendust’s album Animosity with his setup, which includes the 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash.
Album Usage
The Sabian 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash 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 18" AAX X-Plosion Crash, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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