AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Sabian 20" Crash Cymbals 2026
The top pick is Sabian 20" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal ($613). Sabian 20" Stratus Crash Cymbal gives you the most for the money at $446. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 11 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Sabian 20" HHX Complex Thin Crash Cymbal
20" HHX Complex Thin Crash · Sabian
22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This HHX Complex Thin is a beautifully crafted crash that sits incredibly well in a mix – it's responsive and full of character. It's a great choice for players in rock, pop, and jazz who want a warm, musical crash that isn’t overly splashy. It's a serious cymbal for serious players.
Pros
- B20 bronze construction delivers a complex, nuanced wash and sustain.
- Hammered bell provides a warm, articulate chime with excellent projection.
- Thin profile facilitates a responsive, quick attack ideal for dynamic playing.
Cons
- Complex thin design may be too fragile for aggressive, heavy hitters.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most drummers.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$613 now$613€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" AAX X-Plosion Crash Cymbal
20" HHX Plosion Crash · Sabian
22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This HHXplosion is a powerhouse crash – it’s loud, fast, and cuts through the mix like a knife. Dave Weckl's influence shines through, delivering a modern, impactful sound. It’s ideal for players needing a serious crash presence in rock, pop, or fusion settings, but might be too aggressive for quieter styles.
Pros
- The B20 bronze delivers a bright, explosive response characteristic of high-end Sabian cymbals.
- Hand-hammering creates complex overtones and a nuanced wash beyond a basic crash.
- Dave Weckl's input ensures a modern, cutting edge sound suitable for diverse genres.
Cons
- The explosive nature can be overwhelming for very quiet or subtle musical contexts.
- Its high-end price point puts it out of reach for many beginner or budget-conscious drummers.
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$613 now$613€549 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Sabian Stratus is a really well-voiced crash – it's got a great, controlled explosion and a surprisingly warm fundamental. It’s a solid choice for players in jazz, funk, or indie who want a responsive crash without excessive sustain. It's a premium-priced option that delivers a lot of character.
Pros
- The hammering creates a uniquely responsive wash, avoiding a brittle, metallic sound.
- B-20 bronze provides a warm, complex tone with excellent sustain for a thin crash.
- The traditional finish adds character and a slightly darker, more vintage aesthetic.
Cons
- Thin weight limits its suitability for heavier hitters or louder genres like metal.
- The darker tone might not be ideal for brighter, more modern musical styles.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$446 now$446€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" Stratus Crash Cymbal
20" Stratus Dry Crash · Sabian
16 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This 20-inch crash hits hard with a strong attack but dries out quickly, making it perfect for cutting through a loud band. The warm B20 bronze gives it a nice musical feel without getting too bright. It suits players who want a reliable workhorse that stays tight during fast tempos.
Pros
- Strong attack delivers immediate response
- Controlled decay keeps time tight
- Warm tone adds musical depth
Cons
- Raw top finish may need care
- Traditional bottom finish is standard only
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$479 now$479€429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" AA Spotlight Crash Cymbal
20" AA Spotlight Crash · Sabian
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This 20-inch crash shines bright thanks to its glassy surface and B20 bronze. The large, unfinished bell keeps the sound clear and focused. It fits players who love a crisp, cutting tone over a warm, dark sound.
Pros
- Clear and focused sound from the large unfinished bell
- Bright timbre created by the glassy surface finish
- Hand-hammered construction for unique tone
Cons
- Glassy shine may not suit every player's taste
- Bright sound can be less warm than darker models
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$513 now$513€459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" HHX Complex Aero Crash Cymbal
20" HHX Complex Aero Crash · Sabian
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Complex Aero is a beautifully voiced crash – it’s got that warm, full Complex character we all love, but with a touch of airy shimmer thanks to the aero hole. It’s a fantastic choice for players in jazz, fusion, or anyone wanting a sophisticated crash that isn't overly aggressive; it'll cut through a mix without being harsh.
Pros
- Warm, complex fundamental tone with surprising projection.
- Aero hole adds controlled high-frequency shimmer and breath.
- HHX hammering delivers nuanced articulation and responsiveness.
Cons
- Price point positions it as a premium-priced investment.
- Aero hole might be too subtle for players seeking aggressive wash.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$636 now$636€569 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" Stratus Zero Effects Cymbal
20" Stratus Zero · Sabian
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This 20-inch crash uses B20 bronze and heavy hammering for a loud, bright sound. The special holes in the center give it a unique, airy edge. It fits well with rock or metal kits that want a big, cutting crash.
Pros
- B20 bronze gives a bright, cutting crash tone.
- High impact hammering creates explosive response.
- O-Zone design adds depth to the sound.
Cons
- Trashy sound may not suit traditional styles.
- No specific weight listed for feel.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$468 now$468€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" AAX Medium Crash Cymbal
20" AAX Medium Crash · Sabian
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
The Sabian AAX Medium crash is a fantastic choice for modern drummers seeking a bright, cutting crash with a powerful bell. It's versatile enough for many genres, but really shines in rock, pop, and funk where you need that extra sparkle and projection. If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable crash that cuts through the mix, this is a solid option.
Pros
- B20 bronze delivers a bright, complex, and musical wash.
- Slightly larger bell provides a focused, powerful initial attack.
- Medium weight balances warmth with a clear, articulate treble response.
Cons
- The brilliant finish can be prone to finger smudging and oxidation.
- AAX series is premium-priced, representing a significant investment.
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$496 now$496€444 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" HHX Redlight Crash Cymbal
20" HHX Redlight Crash · Sabian
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This cymbal brings a rich, smoky sound with a nice bright edge, thanks to its hand-hammered B20 bronze build. It mixes old-school artisan feel with modern design, making it great for players who want both warmth and sparkle. Perfect for mid-to-large kit setups where you need a crash that cuts through the mix without losing its character.
Pros
- Hand-hammered B20 bronze for a warm, rich tone
- High-end shimmer adds bright top-end sparkle
- Developed with Todd Sucherman for playability
Cons
- Bright model may be too loud for quiet settings
- No weight data provided for shipping checks
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$620 now$620€555 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sabian 20" AAX Heavy Crash Cymbal
20" AAX Heavy Crash · Sabian
4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
The AAX Heavy is a beast – really cuts through the mix with a modern, assertive sound. It's built tough and has a serious presence, perfect for rock, pop, and heavier genres where you need to be heard. If you’re looking for a crash that demands attention, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Bright, cutting sound cuts through dense mixes effectively
- B20 bronze provides a complex, warm undertone despite the brightness
- Heavy weight offers substantial sustain and a powerful initial attack
Cons
- The bright character may not suit softer, more nuanced musical styles
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$479 now$479€429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 11 20" crash cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
20" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 115 models we track, not a sample.
Median $513 — half of all 20" crash cymbals here cost less.
median of 115 models · 20"–20"
How to choose the best 20" crash cymbals
Tone & Articulation
Sabian's 20" crashes generally offer a balance - they're not ice-pick harsh like some thinner cymbals, but they've got enough articulation to cut through a dense mix. You'll find models with a warmer, more washy character alongside those with a more defined, cutting edge. It's about finding that sweet spot for your genre.
Sustain & Wash
The sustain on Sabian crashes is usually pretty generous, but it's controlled. You don't get that endless, uncontrolled ringing that can swamp a quieter passage. The wash is present but doesn't overwhelm the stick definition, which is crucial for nuanced playing.
Build Quality & Lathe Marks
Sabian's consistently good. You'll notice clean, well-defined lathe marks - a sign of care in the manufacturing process. They hold up well to regular gigging; the bell tends to stay responsive without becoming overly beaten down too quickly.
Bell Response
The bell on a Sabian 20" crash is often a highlight. It's responsive to the stick, offering a different tonal color when you hit the bell directly. This is fantastic for adding accents and subtle dynamics to your playing - something you don't always get with cheaper cymbals.
Series Variation
Sabian's different series (AA, AAX, HH, etc.) drastically affect the sound. AA leans towards brighter, more traditional tones; AAX is more refined and polished; HH is known for its darker, more complex sounds. Understanding these series differences is key to finding your sound.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're in the market for a 20" crash? Smart move - it's a killer size, versatile enough for everything from quiet jazz to a full-on rock band. Sabian's been a mainstay in drumming for decades, and their 20" crashes consistently deliver. We're going to break down what makes their offerings special, what to look for, and which models might be the best fit for your kit and your style.
Don't chase the flashiest finish. A raw, unlacquered cymbal will generally have more character and age more gracefully. Pay attention to the weight - lighter crashes are more responsive but less powerful, while heavier ones have more volume but can feel a little sluggish.
Ultimately, listen to as many as you can before you buy; online demos can only tell you so much.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 11 20" crash cymbals from the Thomann catalogue (of 115 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between AA and AAX?
AA is their flagship, more traditional line - brighter, more cutting. AAX is a more modern, refined take - smoother, more controlled, but often a bit less character. Think of AA as a vintage vibe, AAX as a studio-polished sound.
Are Sabian cymbals worth the price?
Generally, yes. You're paying for consistent quality, reliable performance, and a sound that holds up well over time. Cheaper cymbals often cut corners on alloy and manufacturing, leading to a shorter lifespan and a less desirable sound.
Can I use a 20" crash in a metal band?
Absolutely, but choose wisely. A heavier, brighter model will cut through the guitars and drums better than a lighter, darker one. Consider a crash-ride hybrid for added versatility.
How do I care for my Sabian crash?
Regular cleaning with a cymbal cleaner is essential. Avoid harsh chemicals. Proper storage - ideally in a cymbal bag - will protect it from scratches and dents.
I'm a beginner, which Sabian 20" crash should I get?
Something in the AAX series - they're forgiving and sound good in a variety of situations. Don't go too heavy; a medium weight will be easier to control and develop your technique.
