Sabian AA 12" Rock Splash
Group: Splashes
Type: Rock Splash
Size: 12 Inch
Series: AA
Weight: 558g, 572g, 616g, 637g, 647g, 668g, 681g
Median Weight: 637g (n=7)
Years of production: 1985 - ?
Sound file: AA 12" Rock Splash vs. Z Zildjian 12" Splash
Sabian's Description: <<< - >>>
Review: "Included with these test instruments was a 12" 'Rock Splash' (£60). It's meant for those of you who like the idea and sound of a small punctuation cymbal but can't be doing with the hassle of breaking them and buying more. So, with you in mind, Sabian have really strengthened and thickened their brilliant splash. It speaks quickly enough and has a good deal of middle and sizzle; it should stand up to wear and tear. However it still needs to be respected and must be struck properly; never hit through it. Always return the stick immediately after the stroke. This is a very strident cymbal and you really know when it's been hit."
Review written by Bob Henrit ("Sabian Cymbals - Cymbalcheck", International Musician & Recording World, April 1986)
Review: The AA Rock Splash is a heavy cymbal. It's the thickest of all the heavyweight 12" splashes I've played - Z Zildjian 12" Splash (495g) & Paiste RUDE 12" Splash (542g), and by a longshot! Weighing in at a robust 681 grams, this ear rattling little pie isn't splashy in the traditional sense. (At least with the aforementioned Zildjian and Paiste ones there was some splashy-ness in their sound) This splash has a more chime-like sound, with a complex dissonance, that is loud and intense. My first reaction was that this has more in common with a hi-hat cymbal than with a splash. A few more hits only confirmed this.
Also of note is the bell- it measures 5 1/2" / 139mm - nearly half the cymbal is bell!
What could it be used for? I must say that using this as a splash would not yield the most satisfactory results. It would be great for effects, used in a similar fashion as Paiste's Flanger Splash. Also, it would make a good top for a set of hi-hats, or stacked with another cymbal. I think having a Sabian HH 10" China Kang might produce an interesting white noise sound.
Review written by Bluejacketsfan
Artist/song where it can be heard:
