Sabian 7" AA MAX Bell Chime

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Sabian 7" AA MAX Bell Chime

Sabian

7" AA MAX Bell Chime

4.8 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 611810
Brand: Sabian
Model: 7" AA MAX Bell Chime
Price: $174.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

This little chime is a real character piece – Mike Portnoy clearly knows what he’s doing. It’s got a beautiful, cutting bell tone that’s perfect for adding subtle rhythmic accents and atmospheric textures in progressive rock, metal, or any genre where you need something unique. It's a great addition to a kit, but understand it's a specialized tool, not a workhorse.

Product Description

  • Sabian 7" AA MAX Bell Chime
  • Sabian 7" AA MAX Bell Chime
  • Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) Signature Series
  • Size: 7"
  • Material: B-20 Bronze
  • Clearly defined sound
  • Thinner than Cup Chime or Bell
  • Thicker than splash cymbals
  • Ideal for rhythmic effects
PROS
  • • Bright, shimmering bell tone cuts through dense mixes effortlessly.
  • • B-20 bronze construction provides warmth and sustain characteristic of higher-end cymbals.
  • • Mike Portnoy's signature adds a recognizable pedigree and quality control.
  • • Unique voicing sits between a chime and splash, offering distinct rhythmic possibilities.
CONS
  • • Limited tonal range compared to larger effect cymbals or full cymbals.
  • • Can be overly bright in certain recording or live environments without careful EQ.
  • • Price point is premium for a single effect cymbal, a significant investment.

Product Video

Key Features

Type Bell Chime
Size 7"
Material B-20 Bronze
Sound Character Bright, shimmering, bell-like with a quick decay
Weight Light-Medium

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Frequently Asked Questions

The MAX Bell Chime has a quicker decay than a traditional bell or cup chime, offering a more immediate, shorter sound. The volume is comparable, but the focused bell tone makes it feel louder.
Like all B-20 bronze cymbals, it's susceptible to cracking if mishandled. Proper storage, regular cleaning, and avoiding excessive hammering are key to longevity.
While both are effect cymbals, the chime’s bell-like tone is quite distinct from a splash's washier sound; they serve different purposes and aren't truly interchangeable.

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