Pricing and availability

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

Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$454.99
Amazon
4.6 (98)
$360.49
Reverb
$351.70 New
$424.99 Used
Thomann
4.8 (17)
$466.00 $465.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $419

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21"". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash a sonic explosion with the Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21" cymbal, a powerhouse addition to any drummer's arsenal. Crafted for the dynamic and energetic style of Red Hot Chili Peppers' drummer Chad Smith, this China cymbal is a marvel of modern percussion design. Its larger-than-life sound is achieved through a unique combination of a high-profile design and 64 strategically placed holes, delivering a stunningly bright and explosive tone that's ideal for genres ranging from rock and funk to jazz and blues.

The Holy China is constructed from musical B20 bronze, ensuring not only a vibrant sound but also exceptional durability. The large, raw bell and wide lip contribute to its distinctive trashy tone, while the natural finish adds a touch of raw authenticity. Handcrafted and aged in Sabian's legendary Vault, this cymbal is a testament to Sabian's commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you're laying down grooves in the studio or tearing it up on stage, the Sabian Holy China 21" will elevate your performance to new heights.

Key Features:

  • 21-inch size with a high-profile design
  • 64 holes for increased volume and sustain
  • Large raw bell for enhanced cut and durability
  • Made from musical and durable B20 bronze
  • Bright, explosive sound ideal for various music styles
  • Handcrafted and aged in Sabian's renowned Vault

Product specs

Type Holy China
Size 21"
Weight Thin
Finish Brilliant
Material B20
Sound Bright
Volume Loud

FAQs

What type of music is the Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21" best suited for?

The Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21" is ideal for rock and metal genres due to its bright sound and loud volume, providing the aggressive and cutting tones required for these styles.

How does the thin weight of the Sabian 21" AA Holy China affect its sound?

The thin weight of the Sabian 21" AA Holy China contributes to its fast, explosive attack and quick decay, making it perfect for accentuating musical phrases with a sharp, cutting presence.

What material is the Sabian 21" AA Holy China made from and how does it influence the sound?

The Sabian 21" AA Holy China is made from B20 bronze, which offers a rich, complex tone with a bright and loud sound, suitable for dynamic and expressive playing.

Is the Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21" suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21" is well-suited for live performances due to its loud volume and brilliant finish, which ensure it cuts through the mix on stage.

What is the finish of the Sabian 21" AA Holy China and what impact does it have?

The Sabian 21" AA Holy China features a brilliant finish, enhancing its visual appeal and contributing to its bright, shimmering sound that projects well in live settings.

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Sabian AA 21" Chad Smith Signature Holy China

Video thumbnail for Sabian AA 21" Chad Smith Signature Holy China by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Sabian AA 21" Chad Smith Signature Holy China

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Reviews

PROS

  • Cuts through loud environments with crisp attack

  • Versatile sound suitable for various music genres

  • Maintains quality and appearance over time

  • Produces a beautifully musical tone at low volumes

  • Short decay with a trashy, musical burst

  • Excellent complement to other cymbals like crashes and splashes

  • Unique aesthetics with holes enhancing rather than detracting from sound

  • Durable and robust, ideal for heavy use

  • Fast, sharp Chinese "swish" sound

  • High user satisfaction and strong personal recommendations

CONS

  • Extremely loud; ear protection recommended

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21".

Features and functionality

  • The holes in the cymbal shorten decay, offering a loud attack that cuts through and dissipates quickly, ideal for snare hit accents.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners frequently experience cracking, especially when played intensely, suggesting durability issues common with china cymbals.

    Source
  • Known for its loudness, some users attribute hearing issues to prolonged use without protection.

    Source
  • Delivery for similar cymbal models can take considerable time, as noted by an owner who waited three months for a related purchase.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Reminiscent of Carmine Appice's china but crafted from B20 alloy, offering a distinct sound profile.

    Source
  • The Vault Holy China, though discontinued, is often preferred for potential higher resale value and identical sound to the AA version, differing only in logo.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • A favorite for stacking with a small splash, creating a unique sound favored by enthusiasts.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The discontinued Vault Holy China can be found cheaper than the AA version, appealing to buyers interested in both savings and future resale potential.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Christoph Schneider uses Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21"

Christoph Schneider

Drummer

Rammstein

...
Verified via YouTube

6:35 on the far right side of his kit

See how Ray Luzier uses Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21"

Ray Luzier

Drummer

Korn

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video titled "Ray Luzier - Korn - Tour Kit Rundown" by Modern Drummer Official, Ray Luzier is observed at the 3:15 mark showcasing a Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21" cymbal.

See how Nicholas Collins uses Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21"

Nicholas Collins

Drummer

Genesis

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "Nic Collins Presents His Drum Kit On Phil Collins 'Still Not Dead Yet Live' World Tour," Nicholas Collins discusses his Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21" cymbal, describing it as his favorite part of the kit, particularly for the enjoyment it brings when he has the opportunity to use it.

See how Erik Eldenius uses Sabian Chad Smith Holy China 21"

Erik Eldenius

Drummer

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video by Modern Drummer Official, titled "Erik Eldenius - Billy Idol - Tour Kit Rundown 2025," Erik Eldenius is shown using a Sabian 21" Chad Smith Holy China Cymbal as part of his cymbal setup at the 1:55 mark.

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 Chad Smith Holy China 21", it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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