Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (6)
$284.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$284.99
Amazon
3.7 (29)
$284.99
Reverb
4.0 (1)
$244.28 New
$185.00 Used

Average Price: $262

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Sabian 20" XSR Big & Ugly Monarch Ride Cymbal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the art of drumming with the Sabian 20" XSR Big & Ugly Monarch Ride Cymbal, a cymbal that combines vintage aesthetics with modern craftsmanship. This unique piece from Sabian's Big & Ugly collection is crafted using B20 Bronze, renowned for its superior tonal quality. The Monarch Ride is all about delivering a rich, dark, and dynamic sound, offering drummers an unparalleled playing experience. Its thin profile provides a straight-ahead, focused sound that is both crashable and versatile, making it a superb addition to any drum kit.

Whether you're playing a jazz gig or rocking out with your band, this cymbal's complex and versatile nature will elevate your performance. The XSR series, known for incorporating advanced cymbal-making technology, brings you the Monarch Ride at an accessible price without compromising on quality. This cymbal is not just a tool but an expressive instrument that invites you to explore new sonic territories.

Key Features:

  • Made from pure B20 Bronze for superior sound quality
  • Thin profile for enhanced crashability and focused sound
  • Part of the Big & Ugly collection, known for complex and dynamic tones
  • Crafted with trickle-down technology from Sabian's high-end Evolution and X-Plosion series
  • Vintage look and feel with modern performance capabilities

Product specs

Type Ride
Size 20"
Weight Medium Thin
Material B20
Sound Bright, Dynamic

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Sabian 20" XSR Big & Ugly Monarch Ride Cymbal?

The Sabian 20" XSR Big & Ugly Monarch Ride Cymbal offers a bright and dynamic sound, ideal for drummers seeking versatility in their playing, with a traditional finish that enhances its sonic warmth.

Is the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride suitable for both ride and crash techniques?

Yes, the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride is versatile enough to be used as both a ride and a crash cymbal, offering a medium-thin weight that facilitates dynamic playing styles.

What is the material composition of the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal?

The Sabian XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal is crafted from B20 bronze, a high-quality alloy consisting of 80% copper and 20% tin, known for its durability and rich sound.

How does the small bell size affect the sound of the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride?

The small bell size of the Sabian XSR Monarch Ride contributes to a more controlled and focused sound, making it suitable for intricate playing and nuanced dynamics.

What is the finish of the Sabian 20" XSR Big & Ugly Monarch Ride Cymbal?

The Sabian 20" XSR Big & Ugly Monarch Ride Cymbal features a traditional finish, which enhances its warm tonal characteristics and provides a classic appearance.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 20" Big & Ugly XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal - 1787g (XSR2080M-1080220J)

Video thumbnail for Sabian 20" Big & Ugly XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal - 1787g (XSR2080M-1080220J) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 20" Big & Ugly XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal - 1787g (XSR2080M-1080220J)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Sabian 20" Big & Ugly XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal - 1812g (XSR2080M-1082316M) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 20" Big & Ugly XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal - 1812g (XSR2080M-1082316M)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Sabian 20" Big & Ugly XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal - Played by Rick Murray 1772g (XSR2080M-1051617O) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian 20" Big & Ugly XSR Monarch Ride Cymbal - Played by Rick Murray 1772g (XSR2080M-1051617O)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Reviews

PROS

  • Dark and dry tone, great for jazz and intimate settings

  • Excellent stick articulation across various volumes

  • Controlled and dry bell that cuts well in mixes

  • Versatile for multiple styles, from jazz to samba

  • Artisanal look with a modern, unique sound

  • Quick, dark crash with fast decay

  • Comparable to higher-priced rides

CONS

  • Doesn’t open up easily without rivets or sizzler

  • Too quiet for big band settings

  • Requires specific stick types for optimal sound

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian 20" XSR Big & Ugly Monarch Ride Cymbal.

Comparisons

  • The original XS20 Monarch ride is considered brighter and less dry than the XSR version, resembling a more affordable Sabian Manhattan Jazz Ride.

    Source
  • The Monarch ride is reminiscent of the Meinl Mb8 Ghost Ride in appearance and sound.

    Source
  • Owners compare the Monarch's small but cutting bell to the Meinl Byzance series, noting its clarity and chimy character for jazz and progressive genres.

    Source
  • The Monarch's sound is described as brighter and cleaner than other Big & Ugly models, while maintaining dark undertones, making it more versatile for funk.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Monarchs are best suited for low to mid-volume music, performing well in light rock but not ideal for hard rock or metal.

    Source
  • It's noted that the Monarch's dark and moody sound excels in progressive music, where setting a sonic mood is more important than keeping time.

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Features and functionality

  • The XSR Monarch is a dry cymbal, darker than most in its price range but still brighter compared to Sabian's HH/HHX series.

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  • Users describe the Monarch ride as having a dark, washy sound with minimal sustain, offering a unique sonic profile compared to other models.

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  • The Monarch ride offers high-pitched stick definition with a dark wash, making it suitable for jazz and certain funk settings.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users find the 22" ride version too dead-sounding, preferring the regular XSR ride for more lively sound.

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  • Owners note that the sound quality can vary significantly between individual Monarch rides, emphasizing the importance of trying before buying.

    Source
  • Some find the Monarch ride to be the standout in the Big and Ugly series, with others feeling the rest of the series sounds too dead.

    Source
  • An owner describes the Monarch as having a beautiful crash and clear stick definition, indicating versatility for genres like jazz and progressive music.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Monarch ride is praised for its competitive price point, offering a distinctive sound at an accessible cost.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gear Review: Sabian Adds to the Big & Ugly Collection | Tom Tom Magazine

tomtommag.com

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