Best Sabian 22" Ride Cymbals 2026
Alright, let's talk 22" Sabian rides. They're a sweet spot - big enough to have some meat to them, but still manageable for most players. You're looking for something that can handle a gig, record well, and not completely destroy your ears in a rehearsal space? A 22" ride is often the answer, and Sabian's been making 'em for a long time, consistently delivering solid options. Finding the right one is about nailing that balance between wash, stick definition, and overall vibe.
Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
GENRES & STYLES:
For Rock
For Hard Rock
For Progressive
For Power Playing
For Large Venues
For Heavy Music
#1
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sabian 22" HHX Tempest Cymbal
by
Sabian
Hard Rock
Large Venues
Power Playing
Key Feature:
The Sabian HHX Tempest is a beautifully voiced ride – it’s got a gorgeous, dark wash and a surprising amount of dynamic response. This is a really cool, limited-edition cymbal, perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, nuanced ride tone, especially those in orchestral or more atmospheric settings.
PROS
- • Exceptional dark, wash tone with surprising dynamic range.
- • HHX's B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, shimmering character.
- • Vault Drop exclusivity ensures a unique, collectible instrument.
- • The medium-thin weight offers effortless playability and nuanced control.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The 'universal' designation might limit its appeal to specific genres.
- • Dark undertones may not suit brighter, more cutting musical styles.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 569455
$725
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sabian 22" HHX Complex Thin Ride
by
Sabian
Rock
Heavy Music
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
The Sabian HHX Complex Thin Ride is a beautifully voiced cymbal, offering a warm, complex wash and a clear, articulate bell. It's perfect for players seeking a versatile ride for jazz, fusion, or modern worship, where a nuanced and expressive sound is key. This is a serious cymbal for the discerning musician.
PROS
- • Warm, complex wash provides a uniquely musical foundation.
- • Hand-hammered bell delivers a focused, articulate chime.
- • Thin profile facilitates effortless stick control and nuanced playing.
- • B20 bronze construction ensures a rich, long-lasting tonal character.
CONS
- • Complex wash might be too dark for brighter musical styles.
- • Premium-priced, represents a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Thinness requires careful handling to avoid damage from aggressive playing.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 489463
$714
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Sabian 22" HHX Complex Big Cup Ride
by
Sabian
Power Playing
Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Complex Big Cup Ride is a serious player's cymbal. It’s got a gorgeous, full sound with a really defined bell that cuts through – perfect for players who need both warmth and clarity, especially in modern worship, rock, or even some jazz settings. It's a substantial investment, but the sonic payoff is significant.
PROS
- • Exceptional bell definition provides clear, articulate accents.
- • Big cup design offers a warm, complex wash with surprising stick definition.
- • B20 bronze construction delivers a rich, resonant, and musical tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced sonic textures and a beautifully finished surface.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, placing it out of reach for many drummers.
- • The complex wash might not suit all musical genres; less ideal for very dry styles.
- • Relatively heavy, potentially fatiguing in extended playing sessions.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 618657
$747
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sabian 22" AAX Omni Ride
by
Sabian
Large Venues
Hard Rock
Progressive
Key Feature:
The Sabian AAX Omni Ride is a seriously interesting cymbal. Jojo Mayer's influence really shines through, giving it a unique ability to be both subtle and powerful. This ride is ideal for players seeking a versatile, expressive sound and are comfortable exploring a wider sonic palette – think session players, fusion drummers, or anyone wanting a truly unique ride voice.
PROS
- • Exceptional dynamic range thanks to Jojo Mayer’s design input.
- • B20 bronze delivers a complex, shimmering, and articulate wash.
- • The bell produces a focused, cutting tone perfect for accents.
- • Versatile enough for a wide range of genres, from jazz to rock.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Can be overwhelming in a very dry, heavily dampened drum kit.
- • The complex voicing might require some adjustment to fully utilize.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 260509
$626
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Sabian 22" Stratus Ride
by
Sabian
Power Playing
Hard Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
The Stratus is a really solid all-around ride – it’s got a warm, musical tone that works well across a bunch of genres. It’s a great choice for gigging musicians who need a reliable ride that can also handle a crash or two without sounding brittle. A good balance of affordability and quality.
PROS
- • Warm, complex fundamental avoids harshness common in thinner rides.
- • Hammering provides nuanced stick definition and shimmering wash.
- • B-20 bronze offers a balanced, musical tone – not too dark, not too bright.
- • Bell is assertive without being overpowering, usable for accents.
CONS
- • The medium-light weight might not satisfy players seeking a heavier, more trashy ride.
- • While versatile, it’s not a dedicated crash; prolonged crashing will degrade the cymbal’s character.
- • Stratus series, while well-built, sits in a mid-range price bracket – premium options exist.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 577412
$505
#6
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Sabian 22" HHX Omni Brilliant/Natural
by
Sabian
Large Venues
Rock
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Omni Brilliant/Natural ride from Sabian is a real chameleon – it’s got a warm, dark core but can really cut when you need it to. Jojo Mayer's influence shines through in its playability; it's incredibly controllable. It's a fantastic choice for drummers who need a versatile ride that can handle everything from subtle grooves to powerful accents.
PROS
- • The Brilliant/Natural finish offers a unique tonal blend and striking visual appeal.
- • Jojo Mayer’s input delivers exceptional responsiveness and dynamic control.
- • The hammering pattern provides a warm, dark tone with surprising projection.
- • Its versatility allows seamless integration across various musical styles and volumes.
CONS
- • The Brilliant zones can be prone to finger marks, requiring more frequent cleaning.
- • The complex hammering and lathing contribute to a premium-priced investment.
- • While versatile, it might not be the absolute best choice for purely shimmering wash sounds.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 343097
$725
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Sabian 22" HH Sessions Ride
by
Sabian
Progressive
Heavy Music
Rock
Key Feature:
This Sessions Ride from Sabian is a seriously refined instrument. Todd Sucherman’s signature really shines through – it's got a beautiful, responsive stick sound, a lovely wash, and a bell that really projects. Ideal for players seeking a modern, articulate ride with a touch of vintage warmth, especially in rock, progressive, and fusion settings.
PROS
- • Exceptional stick definition thanks to hand-hammering and lathing.
- • Todd Sucherman's signature voicing offers a modern, versatile wash.
- • B20 bronze provides a warm, complex, and musical tone.
- • Bell articulation is remarkably clear and cuts through a mix.
CONS
- • The brilliant finish is prone to finger smudging and requires frequent cleaning.
- • The crash ability, while present, might be limiting for players needing heavy crashes.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 569453
$824
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Sabian 22" HHX Complex Medium Ride
by
Sabian
Large Venues
Heavy Music
Power Playing
Key Feature:
This HHX Complex Medium Ride is a real beauty – a warm, responsive ride with a gorgeous wash and a shimmering bell. It’s perfect for players seeking a sophisticated, expressive ride for genres like jazz, fusion, and modern rock where you need that nuanced character and a full, balanced tone.
PROS
- • Warm, complex wash provides a sophisticated, musical foundation.
- • Hand-hammered bell delivers a clear, articulate, and cutting shimmer.
- • B20 bronze construction ensures excellent tonal projection and responsiveness.
- • HHX hammering creates a nuanced, shimmering stick definition.
CONS
- • The medium weight might feel a bit heavy for players preferring lighter rides.
- • Complex voicing may not suit extremely dry, minimalist playing styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 476110
$725
#9
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Sabian 22" HHX BFM World Ride Cymbal
by
Sabian
Power Playing
Hard Rock
Progressive
Key Feature:
Brian Frasier-Moore really knocked it out of the park with this one. The BFM World Ride is a beautifully voiced cymbal – it’s got a deep, warm core with a fantastic wash and a surprisingly responsive crash. It’s perfect for players needing a versatile, professional-grade ride for a wide range of genres, from jazz and fusion to rock and beyond.
PROS
- • Exceptional warmth and sustain thanks to complex hammering patterns.
- • The 'Sound Control Edge' delivers a surprisingly musical crash response.
- • HHX BFM signature provides a unique, nuanced sonic character.
- • Solid build quality; clearly designed for professional-level use and durability.
CONS
- • The medium weight might feel a little heavy for some players.
- • Price point positions it as a premium-priced investment.
- • While versatile, it's not ideal for very dry, modern styles.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 590041
$725
#10
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Sabian 22" HHX MAX Ride
by
Sabian
Progressive
Heavy Music
Large Venues
Key Feature:
Mike Portnoy's signature HHX MAX Ride is a serious instrument—a beautifully voiced ride with incredible sustain and a dark, warm character. It's built for players seeking a sophisticated, musical ride that cuts through a dense mix, perfect for progressive rock, metal, and even jazz where a darker, more enveloping wash is desired.
PROS
- • Exceptional sustain and wash thanks to complex hammering patterns.
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex tonal palette.
- • Unlathed bell produces a darker, more controlled, musical chime.
- • Lathing on the bow provides a responsive, articulate stick definition.
CONS
- • The weight makes it less ideal for players with weaker wrists or smaller setups.
- • The full, warm sound might be too dark for brighter musical styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611788
$725
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Sabian 22" HHX Legacy Ride
by
Sabian
Progressive
Power Playing
Hard Rock
Key Feature:
This Legacy Ride from Dave Weckl's signature series is a real beauty – it’s got that warm, vintage vibe with a really gorgeous wash that isn't overpowering. It's perfect for players who want a sophisticated, darker ride for jazz, fusion, or any style where subtlety and nuance are key.
PROS
- • Exceptional dark, complex wash provides nuanced musicality.
- • Hammered bell delivers a focused, articulate ping.
- • B20 bronze alloy offers a warm, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Sabian’s meticulous hand-hammering ensures consistent quality.
CONS
- • The darker sound isn’t ideal for brighter, more contemporary styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Relatively heavy, which can lead to fatigue during extended playing.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 193440
$714
How to Choose the Best 22" Ride Cymbals
1
Sound Character
Sabian's signature is often a brighter, more articulate sound than some of their competitors (like Zildjian, which leans more towards a darker, washier tone). They've got models ranging from glassy and shimmering to darker and more complex, but generally, you get a crispness that works well in modern music-though it can be a bit much for vintage tones.
2
Stick Definition & Articulation
Sabian excels at providing clear stick definition. You hear the attack, and you hear the decay. This is crucial for recording, where a muddy ride can swallow everything else. Some models have a really tight, focused articulation - almost too precise for some styles.
3
Sustain & Wash
The amount of sustain and wash varies wildly across the Sabian 22" line. Some are short and controlled, ideal for funk or tighter genres. Others have a sprawling, shimmering wash that's perfect for cinematic scoring or ambient textures. It's a balancing act - too much wash and it's a blurry mess; too little and it's stiff.
4
Build Quality & Lathing
Sabian generally uses consistent hammering and lathing patterns. This isn't a 'budget' brand cutting corners. The lathing (the grooves cut into the cymbal surface) is key to the sound-deeper lathing typically means more wash and a brighter tone. Pay attention to the weight; heavier cymbals tend to have more sustain.
5
Versatility
A good 22" Sabian ride should be versatile enough to handle a range of styles, from rock and pop to jazz and even some heavier genres. The key is finding one that complements your playing style and the overall sound of your band. A bright, dry ride might get lost in a metal band, while a darker, more complex one could be swallowed by a busy pop mix.
Buying Guide
Don't get caught up in the marketing hype. Listen to sound samples online, but ideally, try them out in person. 22" rides are often a bit more expensive than smaller sizes, so be prepared to spend a bit more for a quality instrument. The budget models will often have a thinner profile and a less complex sound - they'll be fine for a beginner, but won't offer the same nuance as the higher-end options.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. We've spent years playing Sabian rides-in clubs, studios, and countless rehearsals. Our evaluation comes down to how they feel under the stick, how they cut through a band mix, and how they record. We A/B them against other popular rides in the same price range to see where they truly shine, and where they fall a bit short.
Frequently Asked Questions
AAX is generally brighter, more polished, and more consistent in sound. HHX is designed to be more 'organic' - expect more variation, more character, and a darker, more complex tone. HHX can be more prone to inconsistencies between cymbals, though.
Absolutely. They're a great size for developing technique and getting a feel for ride cymbal dynamics. Just be aware that the brighter sound of some Sabian models might be a bit harsh if you're not used to it.
It depends. A darker, heavier model with good articulation can work, but a bright, thin ride will likely get buried. Consider the overall drum kit tuning and the band's overall sound.
It means the entire surface of the cymbal has grooves cut into it. This generally leads to a brighter, more washy sound with increased sustain. Less lathing results in a drier, more focused sound.
Regular cleaning is key. Use a cymbal cleaner designed for metal cymbals. Avoid abrasive cleaners and don't let them sit wet. Proper storage - ideally in a cymbal bag - will help prevent unwanted markings and maintain the sound.
