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Description

Crafted in collaboration with the legendary Mike Portnoy, the Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid is an essential addition to any drummer's arsenal. This cymbal stack combines a 10-inch HH Max Stax China Kang with a 10-inch Max Stax Splash, delivering an aggressive, raspy tone that cuts through any mix. Perfectly balancing between a shimmering splash and a traditional mini china, this stack is engineered to energize your drumming with a distinctive Oriental bite.

The top China Kang features a raw, slightly upturned edge, providing a potent blast of white noise, while the bottom Splash adds body and sustain, making this stack as dynamic as it is explosive. Whether you're punctuating a breakdown or infusing your rhythm with new life, the Sabian Max Stax Mid offers an unparalleled sonic experience.

Designed for the discerning drummer, this stack's aggressive yet versatile voice is perfect for accent work and creating dynamic soundscapes. Its brilliant finish and raw, unlathed edges not only enhance its striking appearance but also contribute to its uniquely powerful sound. Highly recommended by drummers who need reliable gear to push the boundaries of their performance.

Key Features:

  • Top cymbal: 10-inch HH Max Stax China Kang
  • Bottom cymbal: 10-inch Max Stax Splash
  • Voiced between a shimmering splash and mini china
  • Brilliant finish with raw unlathed edges
  • Energizes rhythms with a raspy, aggressive tone
  • Ideal for accent work and dynamic responses

Product specs

Brand Sabian
Model Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid
Year 2002 - 2007
Made In Canada
Categories Splash, China, and Effects Cymbals

FAQs

What type of music is the Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid best suited for?

The Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid is ideal for progressive rock and metal genres, offering a quick, trashy sound that cuts through complex arrangements.

How does the Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid differ from traditional cymbals?

Unlike traditional cymbals, the Max Stax Mid provides a unique, stacked sound with a rapid decay, perfect for accents and adding texture to your drumming.

What is the construction of the Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid?

The Max Stax Mid features a combination of a splash and a china cymbal, designed to create a sharp, cutting sound with a short sustain.

Is the Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid suitable for live performances?

Yes, its quick, explosive sound makes it well-suited for live performances, especially in settings where a pronounced, distinctive cymbal accent is needed.

Can the Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid be used in a studio setting?

Absolutely, the unique sound of the Max Stax Mid can add creative flair and dynamic accents to studio recordings, enhancing the overall drum mix.

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian HH Mike Portnoy Mid Max Stax Cymbal Set - 277/289g (15005MPM-1121715Y)

Video thumbnail for Sabian HH Mike Portnoy Mid Max Stax Cymbal Set - 277/289g (15005MPM-1121715Y) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian HH Mike Portnoy Mid Max Stax Cymbal Set - 277/289g (15005MPM-1121715Y)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for Sabian HH Mike Portnoy Mid Max Stax Cymbal Set - 298/300g (15005MPM-1031920K) by Memphis Drum Shop

Sabian HH Mike Portnoy Mid Max Stax Cymbal Set - 298/300g (15005MPM-1031920K)

Memphis Drum Shop

Memphis Drum Shop

Video thumbnail for SABIAN Mid Max Stax with Joe Bergamini by SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Mid Max Stax with Joe Bergamini

SABIAN Cymbals

SABIAN Cymbals

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid.

Use cases and applications

  • The Mike Portnoy Max Stax Mid is praised for its ability to replace hi-hats, offering a closed hi-hat sound with shorter sustain, ideal for unique rhythmic applications.

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  • It's noted as a great accent cymbal, particularly effective in rock/pop styles for its ability to cut through without overpowering the mix.

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Comparisons

  • Some owners prefer the sound of the Sabian Max Stax over other modern stacks, citing its pre-configured nature as superior to other newer stacks on the market.

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Features and functionality

  • Stacks, including the Max Stax, are often used to replicate electronic handclap sounds, making them versatile for genres requiring tight, percussive accents.

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  • The 8" and 10" Max Stax are praised for their sound quality, while the 14" is considered less impressive unless tightened for a staccato effect.

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  • The Sabian Mike Portnoy Max Stax 10" Mid is praised for its cutting sound with zero wash, making it an ideal accent cymbal for solos.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Creative stack combinations, such as a splash beneath a mini china, can be used to achieve a unique "cah" sound for end-of-fill crashes or accents.

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User experience

  • Drummers who have integrated stacks like the Max Stax into their setup report that these stacks add a level of creativity and finesse, enhancing their overall playing style.

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  • One user notes that the 14" crash cymbal sounds similar to a splash, indicating a preference for larger crashes for distinct sound differentiation.

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  • Owners who have returned to drumming after a hiatus find the Max Stax setup reminiscent of a classic Portnoy configuration, enhancing the nostalgic experience.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Tightening the Max Stax using Tama Roadpro hardware enhances the staccato sound, preventing it from turning overly trashy.

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