Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
5.0 (8)
$479.99
Amazon
3.0 (6)
$449.99
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$366.42 New
$128.76 Used
Thomann
4.8 (19)
$468.00 $465.00 $3.00 · All time low

Average Price: $378

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into the heart of your drumming expression with the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal. This masterpiece melds classic design with contemporary crafting, offering an unparalleled, trashy response that captivates from the first crash. Its unique construction ensures a raw, aggressive attack while maintaining a musical tone, making it a versatile choice for drummers across genres. Whether you're laying down a backbeat or accentuating transitions, the HHX Chinese stands ready to elevate your performance with its dynamic sound.

Key Features:

  • Thin weight through the bow for a responsive and expressive playability
  • Evenly-flanged lip ensures a consistent, trashy output
  • Designed for versatility across a wide range of musical genres
  • Raw, aggressive attack that doesn't sacrifice musicality even at high volumes

Product specs

Available since December 2005
Hand Hammered Cymbal Yes
Finish Brilliant, Glossy
Alloy B20 Bronze

FAQs

What sound characteristics does the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal offer?

The Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal delivers a dark, explosive sound with a fast, aggressive attack and a quick decay, making it ideal for accents in rock, metal, and fusion genres.

What material is the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal made from?

The Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal is crafted from B20 bronze, which consists of 80% copper and 20% tin, providing a rich, complex tone.

Is the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal is well-suited for live performances due to its powerful projection and cutting sound, allowing it to stand out in a mix.

How does the hand-hammering process affect the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal's sound?

The hand-hammering process gives the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal a unique, nuanced sound with increased tonal complexity and a more personalized character compared to machine-made cymbals.

What finish does the Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal have?

The Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese cymbal features a brilliant, glossy finish that not only enhances its visual appeal but also contributes to its bright and cutting sound.

SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Cymbals

18" HHX Chinese Product Video

Video thumbnail for 18" HHX Chinese Product Video by SABIAN Cymbals

18" HHX Chinese Product Video

SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Cymbals

Video thumbnail for Sabian 18" HHX Chinese Cymbal - 1079g (11816XN-1022322E) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 18" HHX Chinese Cymbal - 1079g (11816XN-1022322E)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Sabian 18" HHX Chinese by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Sabian 18" HHX Chinese

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Video thumbnail for Sabian 18" HHX Chinese Cymbal - 1196g (11816XN-1102220P) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 18" HHX Chinese Cymbal - 1196g (11816XN-1102220P)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality, praised as one of the best China cymbals heard

  • Powerful, cutting attack perfect for metal and rock genres

  • Versatile; suitable for prog metal, rock, and even country

  • Unique, standalone sound that enhances musical dynamics

  • Visually appealing design that complements the drum kit

  • Strong recommendation from experienced drummers for its tonal qualities

CONS

  • Prone to cracking due to its thin build

  • Limited lifespan compared to other cymbals, especially under hard play

  • Not ideal for use with heavier drumsticks like 2B/5B

  • Lacks a good dynamic range at lower volumes

  • Brand labeling printed only on one side, which some find unappealing

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese.

Comparisons

  • The Sabian HHX is less abrasive and blends better in mixes compared to the 19” Paragon and the Zildjian Oriental china.

    Source
  • The 18" AAX Metal China is considered too clangy for rock, indicating it's better suited for more distorted metal genres.

    Source
  • The HHX Zen China is recommended for those preferring a darker, more traditional china sound compared to brighter options like the AA Holy China.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for drummers seeking a versatile china that integrates smoothly without being overly harsh, unlike other models which may dominate the mix.

    Source
  • The 14" HHX Mini Chinese is praised for its quick and sharp sound, making it an excellent accent piece in a drum kit.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Sabian HHX offers a traditional china sound while maintaining a softer, more controlled sonic profile than its counterparts.

    Source
  • The 19" Paragon China is noted for its dynamic, washy sound and vibrant tone, especially when ridden.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners express concerns about the Holy China potentially cracking easily, highlighting a potential durability issue.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jose Pasillas uses Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese

Jose Pasillas

Drummer

Incubus

...
Verified via YouTube

"I mostly use this with a combination of a snare hit, so just a really fast, loud sort of combination with a snare and crash."

See how George Kollias uses Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese

George Kollias

Drummer

Nile

...
Verified via YouTube

At 8:34 George identifies one of his china cymbals as the "HHX 18 inch."

See how Ben Minal uses Sabian 18'' HHX Chinese

Ben Minal

Drummer

Dorje

...
Verified via YouTube

in this rig rundown ben shows off his hhx china cymbal that he has used in his cymbal setup

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'' HHX Chinese, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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