Pricing and availability

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Sweetwater
4.5 (2)
$287.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (15)
$287.99
Amazon
4.9 (82)
$272.49 New
$253.42 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (12)
$262.67 New
$195.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (10)
$287.99
zZounds
5.0 (2)
$359.99
Thomann
4.8 (6)
$379.00 $375.00 $4.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£359.00

Average Price: $291

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

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

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Description

Unleash the full potential of your drumming with the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18", a cymbal that effortlessly blends explosive energy and nuanced musicality. Crafted with Sabian's proprietary Auto-Focus Response technology, this crash cymbal offers unparalleled accuracy and balance, ensuring a consistent sound whether you're in a quiet practice session or commanding the stage in front of a roaring crowd. Its brilliant finish not only catches the eye but also amplifies its bright, shimmering tones that cut through any mix with precision.

The AAXplosion Crash is meticulously handcrafted from B20 bronze, a premium alloy comprising 80% copper and 20% tin, delivering a warm, complex tone with rich overtones. This extra-thin cymbal features a tapered edge that reacts instantaneously to even the lightest touch, providing a dynamic range suitable for all music styles. Sabian's dedication to quality is evident in the aging and hand-testing process each cymbal undergoes in their legendary vault, ensuring exceptional durability and musicality.

Designed for drummers who demand both speed and power, the AAXplosion Crash 18" is more than just an instrument; it's an extension of your artistic expression. Experience the explosive energy and the bright, cutting sound that has made this cymbal a favorite among professional drummers worldwide.

Key Features:

  • 18" AAXplosion Crash Cymbal
  • Extra-thin weight for fast response
  • Brilliant finish for enhanced brightness
  • Constructed from musical B20 bronze
  • Handcrafted with Sabian's Auto-Focus Response technology
  • Wide dynamic range suitable for all styles
  • Clear, defined cymbal sound with rich overtones

Product specs

Available since April 2012
Hand Hammered Cymbal Yes
Finish Brilliant, Glossy
Alloy B20 Bronze

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18"?

The Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" delivers a bright, explosive sound with a fast response, making it ideal for cutting through in rock and pop settings.

Is the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" is designed to project well in live settings, thanks to its brilliant finish and hand-hammered craftsmanship that enhance its volume and clarity.

What material is the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" made from?

The Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" is crafted from B20 bronze alloy, known for its durability and rich tonal quality.

Does the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" have a glossy finish?

Yes, the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" features a brilliant, glossy finish that not only looks striking but also contributes to its bright and cutting sound.

Is the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" hand-hammered?

Yes, the Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" is a hand-hammered cymbal, which enhances its tonal complexity and ensures a unique sound character.

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Sabian AAXplosion Crash Cymbal 18"

Video thumbnail for Sabian AAXplosion Crash Cymbal 18" by Drum Center of Portsmouth

Sabian AAXplosion Crash Cymbal 18"

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Drum Center of Portsmouth

Reviews

PROS

  • Bright, crisp tone with a shimmery finish

  • Fast decay allows for quick response in dynamic playing

  • Durable construction, withstands years of heavy use

  • Versatile across music styles: Rock, Metal, Funk, Fusion

  • Cuts through mix without being overpowering

  • Perfect for accents and dynamic changes

  • Well-suited for both small and large venues

  • Easily blends with other cymbals

  • High-quality sound without unwanted ringing

  • Holds resale value well for future upgrades

CONS

  • Can be a bit pricey for those on a budget

  • Might appear clangy at lower volumes

Owner Insights

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

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the cymbal's volume and sustain, particularly in loud band settings, as a replacement for smaller crash cymbals lacking in volume.

    Source
  • Heavy cymbals necessitate a more forceful playing style, which can lead to technique modifications and potential playing issues.

    Source
  • Some owners note that the 18" AAXplosion crash opens up quickly, providing an immediate response ideal for dynamic playing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users transitioning from a 16" crash notice a significant increase in volume and sustain with the 18" AAX X-Plosion, making it ideal for louder performances.

    Source
  • Medium and thin cymbals offer better dynamic range than heavy cymbals, which require more force to activate and can encourage poor playing habits.

    Source
  • The early 2000s AAX Xplosion crashes are described as darker than some HHX models, offering a unique tonal option within the Sabian lineup.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners frequently find good deals on this cymbal through second-hand marketplaces, often at about half the original retail price, enhancing its value proposition.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Medium and thin cymbals are suggested for players who can control their strikes, offering longevity and better response without needing excessive force.

    Source
  • Users with a range of AAXplosion sizes, including 16", 18", 19", and 20", find them versatile across various musical styles and settings.

    Source
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
C

Loud, classic crash sound

This is a great crash and my current one is like 8 years old which is crazy. I use this on my right hand side and crash and ride on it constantly.

D

Great

It's a great cymbal for Rock and Metal, but also works for Funk and Fusion. It's kinda loud but I love it. Bright, medium pitched, middle sustain sound.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Shannon Leto uses Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18"

Shannon Leto

Drummer

Thirty Seconds to Mars

...
Verified via MusicRadar

Listed as a part of his drum setup

See how Cobus Potgieter uses Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18"

Cobus Potgieter

Drummer

...
Verified via Cobus Potgieter

In the equipement section of his site, Cobus has a summary of all his cymbals, including the AAXplosion Crash.

See how Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad uses Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18"

Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad

Drummer

Gorgoroth

...
Verified via Metalstorm

Kjetil-Vidar Haraldstad uses a Sabian AAXplosion Crash 18" cymbal, as detailed in the gear list on Metalstorm.

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 AAXplosion Crash 18", it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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johnny_t

johnny_t

Gear IQ 207

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