Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $162

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sabian 18" B8 China". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash a whirlwind of sound with the Sabian 18" B8 China cymbal, a versatile addition to any drummer's arsenal. Known for its raw, dark, and trashy tones, this cymbal is perfect for adding texture to your grooves and breakdowns. Whether you're rocking out in a metal band or adding flair to an orchestral piece, its dynamic range and musicality make it an ideal choice for various music genres. Crafted from B8 bronze, the cymbal's thin weight ensures a sharp, explosive response that cuts through any mix with ease.

The Sabian B8X series is renowned for its quality and expressiveness, with each cymbal hand-lathed and hand-tested by Sabian's Vault sound specialists. This ensures that every piece meets the high standards that drummers expect from Sabian. Whether you're a student or a seasoned drummer, the B8 China offers incredible value and performance, enabling you to experiment and find your unique sound. Dive into your next performance with this cymbal and let your creativity soar.

Key Features:

  • Size: 18 inches
  • Material: B8 bronze alloy
  • Style: Focused
  • Sound: Bright, raw, and trashy
  • Weight: Thin
  • Ideal for genres: Metal, rock, funk, orchestral music
  • Hand-lathed and hand-tested for quality assurance

Product specs

Type China
Size 18"
Weight Thin
Material B8
Pitch Mid to High
Sound Bright

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Sabian 18" B8 China suitable for?

The Sabian 18" B8 China is ideal for genres that require a bright and cutting sound, such as rock, metal, and punk, where explosive accents are essential.

How does the Sabian 18" B8 China compare to other China cymbals?

The Sabian 18" B8 China offers a bright and aggressive tone with a mid to high pitch, making it a great choice for drummers who need a cymbal that cuts through the mix.

Is the Sabian 18" B8 China durable for live performances?

Yes, the Sabian 18" B8 China is crafted from B8 bronze, known for its durability, making it suitable for the rigors of live performances.

What is the weight of the Sabian 18" B8 China, and how does it affect the sound?

The Sabian 18" B8 China is thin in weight, which contributes to its fast attack and explosive sound, perfect for accentuating musical passages.

Does the Sabian 18" B8 China require any special maintenance?

Like all cymbals, it is recommended to clean the Sabian 18" B8 China with a soft cloth and a cymbal cleaner to maintain its bright sound and appearance.

masterofmetal15

masterofmetal15

Sabian B8 18" China

Video thumbnail for Sabian B8 18" China by masterofmetal15

Sabian B8 18" China

masterofmetal15

masterofmetal15

Video thumbnail for Test - Sabian B8 18" China Cymbal by DJahjeBand724

Test - Sabian B8 18" China Cymbal

DJahjeBand724

DJahjeBand724

Video thumbnail for Sabian B8 18" China by Bertha Drums

Sabian B8 18" China

Bertha Drums

Bertha Drums

Video thumbnail for Sabian 18" B8 China by Mike McLaren Drumming

Sabian 18" B8 China

Mike McLaren Drumming

Mike McLaren Drumming

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian 18" B8 China.

Comparisons

  • The Sabian AA Holy China and XPlosion China are recommended as premium options, though users note they can be high-pitched.

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  • While B8s are likened to a practice amp, they're considered better than brass cymbals, providing a more authentic cymbal experience.

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  • B8 cymbals are compared to Paiste PST7 for design, weight, and hammering, with PST7 noted as superior in execution.

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  • The Sabian B8 Pro chinas are compared favorably to Paiste Alphas, with some users finding them better than Sabian's Scimitar/ZBT/302 series.

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  • Stagg is considered a European equivalent to Wuhan, possibly made in the same factory, suggesting similar sound quality at a competitive price.

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  • Some users find Wuhan chinas to be a strong alternative due to their B20 alloy, despite potential inconsistencies in sound.

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Build quality

  • Users mention B8 cymbals can crack quickly, attributing this to a possibly less elastic alloy.

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User experience

  • Some players find B8 cymbals to sound harsh and less pleasing, especially in live settings alongside higher-end cymbals.

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  • Owners report a distinct, bright sound from Sabian B8 cymbals, especially noticeable when closed, making them suitable for certain musical styles.

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  • Some users report that smaller Wuhan chinas, like 12", can sound clangy and are less desirable, recommending sizes 16" and up for better tonal quality.

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  • One owner recalled that the B8 Pro china was their favorite, even when compared to higher-end models like the AAX China.

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  • Owners note the B8 Pro china's longevity, with one user describing it as lasting many years before cracking.

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Use cases and applications

  • B8 cymbals are favored by metal drummers for their cutting bell sound, though not recommended for versatile musical settings.

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  • It's noted that keeping china cymbals angled down and playing them with a sweeping motion can prolong their lifespan, countering concerns about fragility.

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  • The Sabian B8 Pro 18" China is favored for its versatility and affordability, often described as performing better than expected for its price range.

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  • The B8 Pro china is praised for its full, musical tone, making it suitable for riding, punctuating snare hits, and creating unique textures in musical phrases.

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Value and pricing

  • $60 is considered a fair price for the B8 Pro china, with some buyers successfully negotiating down to $50.

    Source

3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
fisher_khongmaly

Good

It sounds like a b8 china! It is very washy, very b8 like with the odd tone, and very thin. If you want a thin china that flops a lot, get this.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Aaron Kitcher uses Sabian 18" B8 China

Aaron Kitcher

Drummer, Music Producer

infant annihilator

...
Verified via YouTube

he uses this china cymbal

See how DaDrum uses Sabian 18" B8 China

DaDrum

...
Verified via YouTube

Platillos / Cymbals: - Sabian B8 Hi Hats 14"/36cm (x2) - Sabian B8 Hi Hats 14"/35cm (x2) - Sabian B8 Ride 20"/50cm - Sabian B8 Splash 10"/25cm - Sabian B8 Crash 16"/41cm - Sabian B8 Crash 18"/45cm - Sabian B8 China Crash 16"/41cm - Sabian B8 Chinese 18"/45cm - Zilgian Avedis Splash 8”/20cm (for stack) - Pearl CX800 top Hi Hat Bell (cutted) 7”/18cm (for stack)

See how Nick Bonnici uses Sabian 18" B8 China

Nick Bonnici

Singer, Bassist

Forest Hills Project

...
Verified via Photo

Nick Bonnici uses a Sabian 18" B8 China cymbal, as seen in his Instagram post captioned "Peach juice and toothpaste." You can hear this cymbal in action on the song "Reality Hits."

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" B8 China, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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