Sabian
Andre Murphy
One of the very best rides you can buy if you need a clear, cutting sound from your ride. The Bell has a lot of attitude, and the whole tone just sounds mean. Thanks to Mugan Music for helping me out!
DLEnfinger
I purchased this Ride out of brand loyalty. I've been using Sabian cymbals for over 15 years and I could't bring myself to purchasing a different brand. With that being said, I really, really, really liked the sound and feel of a Zildjian 21" Sweet Ride. In college I had some friends who had them in their line ups and they really helped fill out their sets. I primarily play worship music and indie rock and I wanted a ride that would allow me the ability to crash if I needed to while still having the musicality of decent ride definition.
When Sabian introduced this ride a few years back I was so stoked, because this cymbal is exactly what I wanted. Yes, you can rock out and bash the mess out of it. It has a nice dark tone with a very thin feel. Imagine a big crash. Yet at the same time you can really play virtually any style of music you want with it. The wash from the ride has a very nice balance to it; it doesn't overpower you or run you off the stage. The bow of the ride has plenty of definition at light volumes and and bell still cuts through at higher volumes too. I am used to using the AAX series which have a very modern and bright sound whereas this AA series is a bit darker, but still pairs well with the rest of my kit. The only thing that I am not crazy about is the bell. I went from using the 21" AAX Stage ride, which is a lot heavier and has an incredibly loud and piercing bell, to the 21" Bash which is significantly lighter and the bell is not as powerful.
I bought this because of brand loyalty, but now when I play them side-by-side, I'd take the Bash Ride any day. I'm glad that I own it.
