Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (9)
$189.99
Amazon
4.2 (45)
$189.99
Reverb
$165.90 New
$127.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (8)
$189.99
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$189.99
Thomann
4.5 (10)
$274.00 $272.00 $2.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£258.00

Average Price: $189

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Sabian Chopper 8''". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Dive into a world of rhythmic innovation with the Sabian Chopper 8''. This exceptional effects cymbal stands out not just for its unique appearance but for the distinctive sounds it produces. Comprising three bronze discs, with two shaped like propellers and loosely riveted together, the Sabian Chopper offers a playing experience that's as unique as your music. Whether you're accentuating rhythms or crafting tightly focused white noise effects, this cymbal's innovative design ensures every strike resonates with clarity and character.

The Sabian Chopper isn't just another addition to your kit; it's a statement of versatility and creativity. It's engineered to blend seamlessly into any drum or percussion setup, offering sounds that range from raw and aggressive to tightly focused and rhythmic. Whether replacing an X-hat for a funky techno-slap or laying it on a snare for that extra punch, the Chopper's ability to transform your music knows no bounds. Endorsed by industry legends like Mike Portnoy, Will Calhoun, and Rodney Howard, the Sabian Chopper 8'' is not just a cymbal but a gateway to exploring new sonic landscapes. Encased in a one-year Sabian warranty, this cymbal promises not only unique sounds but durability and quality that stands the test of time.

Key Features:

  • Unique three-disc configuration for a distinct, raw sound
  • Versatile application, perfect for accents and rhythms
  • Can be mounted on any standard cymbal stand
  • Ideal for creating white-noise and techno-style effects
  • Endorsed by professionals like Mike Portnoy, Will Calhoun, and Rodney Howard
  • Protected by a one-year Sabian warranty

Product specs

Type Chopper
Size 8"
Weight Medium Heavy
Finish Bronze
Sound White Noise
Sustain Short

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Sabian Chopper 8''?

The Sabian Chopper 8'' produces a unique white noise effect with a short sustain, making it ideal for adding dynamic sound layers and accents in various musical styles.

Is the Sabian Chopper 8'' suitable for all music genres?

While it can be used in many genres, the Sabian Chopper 8'' is particularly effective in settings that require experimental or dynamic sound effects, such as fusion, electronic, and experimental music.

How is the Sabian Chopper 8'' constructed?

The Sabian Chopper 8'' is a medium-heavy cymbal made of bronze, designed to deliver a distinctive sound with its multi-layered construction.

Can the Sabian Chopper 8'' be used in a traditional drum set?

Yes, the Sabian Chopper 8'' can be integrated into a traditional drum set to provide unique sound effects and textures, enhancing the overall sonic palette.

How does the size of the Sabian Chopper 8'' affect its sound?

The 8'' size of the Sabian Chopper contributes to its short sustain and focused sound, making it ideal for quick accents and effects in a musical setup.

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Sabian 8" Chopper

Video thumbnail for Sabian 8" Chopper by The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Sabian 8" Chopper

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

The Drum Shop - Portland, Maine

Video thumbnail for Sabian 8" Chopper by Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Sabian 8" Chopper

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Woodwind & Brasswind is now Music & Arts

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique, attention-getting sound for creative drummers looking for something different

  • Bright, quick response, ideal for fast rock, metal, and modern genres

  • Versatile, can be used as a mini hi-hat or for quick accents

  • Short sustain with a crisp, choppy sound, perfect for electronic-like effects

  • Compact size saves space and adds a distinct color to drum setups

  • Thick and sturdy design ensures durability and longevity

  • Offers a trashy, modern sound reminiscent of electronic music

  • Affordable alternative to pricier Max Stax cymbals with versatile applications

  • Adjustable sound through tension on cymbal felts

CONS

  • Heavier design due to three-layer construction may not suit all players

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian Chopper 8''.

Use cases and applications

  • The 10" version is a favorite for layering with snare backbeats, offering a tambourine-like effect and greater volume than other splash-sized stacks.

    Source
  • The 8" Chopper is ideal for counting into songs, offering a unique alternative to hi-hats or stick clicks, especially useful for bands with timing challenges.

    Source
  • Works exceptionally well in fills and odd time signatures, providing a distinct accent that complements unconventional rhythms.

    Source
  • Experimenting with cracked or older cymbals can lead to unique stack combinations that are otherwise unusable separately.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Sabian Chopper has a notably short sustain, which some drummers modify by stacking with a 6" AA Splash to extend it.

    Source
  • The 8" Chopper pairs effectively with dark, trashy chinas, enhancing the overall sonic palette with a unique blend of sounds.

    Source
  • Using an x-hat attachment allows easy adjustment of pressure between cymbals, enhancing stack versatility and sound quality.

    Source

User experience

  • The 8" size is considered too high-pitched by some, with larger sizes (10" and 12") preferred for versatility in accenting.

    Source
  • Owners frequently place the 8" Chopper near the ride cymbal or centrally within the kit for easy and versatile access.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users prefer the Hammerax Crash Course over the Chopper, although both share similar attributes like a trashy, cutting sound and quick decay.

    Source
  • Stacking with cymbals that have holes can result in a more "stack-friendly" sound, but success also depends on the cymbals' shape.

    Source
  • While Meinl stacks often have holes for air escape, the shape and imperfections of cymbals can significantly affect their interaction in a stack.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • An 8" HH splash stacked with the 8" Chopper creates a "nasty" sound, favored by some drummers for its dry, dirty texture.

    Source

3.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how The Rev uses Sabian Chopper 8''

The Rev

Singer, Drummer

Avenged Sevenfold

...
Verified via Photo

The rev used this cymbal on the song Almost Easy, By Avenged Sevenfold

See how Shannon Leto uses Sabian Chopper 8''

Shannon Leto

Drummer

Thirty Seconds to Mars

...
Verified via MusicRadar

Listed as a part of his drum setup

See how Cobus Potgieter uses Sabian Chopper 8''

Cobus Potgieter

Drummer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Making The Quadrum Series (Part 1/4 - Set-Up & Equipment)," Cobus Potgieter showcases his drumming setup, including the Sabian Chopper 8''. He creatively incorporates this effects cymbal into a unique stack by placing an AA splash on top, enhancing the chopper's sustain.

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 Chopper 8'', it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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