Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$549.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (2)
$549.99
Thomann
5.0 (2)
$549.00 $545.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£487.00

Average Price: $549

High-end/Boutique

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash a wave of expressive sound with the Sabian 20" HHX Zen China Cymbal, an extraordinary piece crafted for drummers who demand both depth and dynamism from their percussion arsenal. This unique inverted China design offers an innovative approach to traditional cymbals, allowing for easier playability when mounted flat. The synergy of traditional hand hammering and modern HHX hammering techniques results in a playing surface that is beautifully balanced, offering a dark, complex tone that is as musical as it is bold.

Forged from robust B20 bronze, this cymbal not only delivers a rich, dark sound but also promises durability, making it a reliable companion for both studio sessions and electrifying live performances. The Zen China is not just a piece of percussion; it's a statement of quality and craftsmanship, celebrated by drummers worldwide, including legends like Terry Bozzio and Mike Portnoy.

Whether you’re laying down grooves in the studio or cutting through the mix on stage, the Sabian HHX Zen China ensures your sound is both distinct and captivating. Elevate your drumming experience with this award-winning cymbal that has set the standard in innovation and sonic excellence.

Key Features:

  • 20" HHX Zen China Cymbal
  • Unique inverted China design
  • Traditional hand hammering combined with HHX hammering
  • Made from musical and durable B20 bronze
  • Dark, complex sound ideal for modern styles
  • Winner of the Sabian "Players' Choice" 2012

Product specs

Type China
Size 20"
Weight Thin
Material B20
Sound Dark

FAQs

What sound characteristics can I expect from the Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal?

The Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal offers a dark, explosive sound with a quick decay, making it ideal for creating dramatic accents in a musical performance.

Is the Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal suitable for all music genres?

This cymbal is particularly well-suited for rock, metal, and fusion genres where dynamic, cutting effects are desired.

What material is the Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal made from?

The Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal is crafted from B20 bronze, which contributes to its rich, complex tonal qualities.

How does the weight of the Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal affect its sound?

Being a thin cymbal, it responds quickly with a fast attack and a short sustain, perfect for sharp, impactful accents.

What is the primary use of the Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal in a drum setup?

This cymbal is primarily used as an effect cymbal to create powerful, dramatic accents during transitions or climactic moments in a performance.

SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Players' Choice - Mike Portnoy Demos the 20" HHX Zen China

Video thumbnail for SABIAN Players' Choice - Mike Portnoy Demos the 20" HHX Zen China by SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Players' Choice - Mike Portnoy Demos the 20" HHX Zen China

SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Cymbals

Video thumbnail for Sabian 20" HHX Zen China Cymbal - Played by Greg Zeller (12016XNZ-1041012CC) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 20" HHX Zen China Cymbal - Played by Greg Zeller (12016XNZ-1041012CC)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Sabian 20" HHX Zen China Cymbal - 1529g (12016XNZ-1080220G) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 20" HHX Zen China Cymbal - 1529g (12016XNZ-1080220G)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal.

Comparisons

  • The HHX Complex series is compared favorably to the Zildjian K Custom Dark and K Sweet lines for their similar tonal qualities.

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  • The Istanbul Traditional Darks and Zildjian K Sweet are suggested as alternatives for those seeking different tonal preferences in the same price range.

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  • The Sabian 20" HHX Zen China is noted to be darker and smoother than the Paiste 20" Novo China, appealing to those seeking a less high-end tone.

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  • The Sabian 20" HHX Zen China is favored for its versatility, with some owners switching from heavier Paiste cymbals for its smoother playability and sound.

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  • While the Wuhan China cymbals are praised for affordability, the HHX Zen China offers a more refined sound, appealing to those seeking quality over cost.

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Use cases and applications

  • HHX cymbals, particularly the Complex series, are noted for their versatility across genres like jazz, rock, metal, and pop, offering a balanced sound with adequate cut and wash.

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  • Sabian's Zen China is highlighted for its dynamic range and phenomenal sound, although its decay is not as long as some other chinas, like the 20" Wuhan.

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  • A preferred choice for players seeking a dark, smooth tone in contrast to the harsher, piercing sound of other China cymbals.

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User experience

  • Owners highlight a quick decay and lightness in HHX cymbals, making them suitable for versatile playing but caution against heavy hitting due to their thinner design.

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  • Owners appreciate the HHX Zen China for its dynamic range, describing it as their second favorite cymbal due to its unique sound profile.

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Features and functionality

  • The 21” Thin Ride is acclaimed for its crash-like sound, praised for its adaptability in both ping and wash characteristics.

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Value and pricing

  • The Sabian 20" HHX Zen China is priced around $500, which may be a consideration for potential buyers seeking similar features at a lower cost.

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Setup and maintenance

  • It's been noted that tight felts can effectively dampen unwanted overtones, enhancing the cymbal's trashy sound characteristics.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nick D'Virgilio uses Sabian 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal

Nick D'Virgilio

Drummer

Mr. Big

...
Verified via YouTube

2:38 "Sabian is spoiling the hell out of me for this tour, and other things, and they just sound great, and they're so play. Lot's of nuance in the cymbals even for a rock gig like this, so I'll just take you around from left to right. HHX Evolution O-Zone 18", an HHX Complex Thin Crash 18, an AA Raw Bell 18, this guy right here gets the bulk of the hitting throughout the gig. It's a nice rock and roll cymbal. 14" Anthology Low Bell Hi-hats, my ride is a 22" AAX Medium Ride, I have an HHX Complex Thin 19, so an 18 on the left, 19 on the right. Few of the brand new Stratus line of cymbals; Stratus 20" Crash, I can't get that out of my mouth, and then I have the Stratus 18" Zero Crash with the 18" China on the bottom for my stack. And then, maybe my favorite cymbal of all here is the HHX 20" Zen China with rivets in it, so this just reminds me of Phil Collins, like 'Seconds Out' era china sound."

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 20 inch HHX Zen China Cymbal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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