Sabian Percussion 10" Chopper

Group: Other
Type: Chopper
Size: 10 Inch
Series: Percussion
Weight: 1277g, 1279g, 1280g, 1282g, 1283g, 1285g
Years of production: 2008¹ - Present
Sound file: Percussion 10" & 12" Chopper
Percussion 10" Chopper
Percussion 10" Chopper
Percussion 10" Chopper
Percussion 10" Chopper
Percussion 10" Chopper
Sabian's Description: <<< - >>>
Review: ""The Choppers produce blasts of brilliant metallic crunch. We were struck by how many nuances and subtleties could be pulled out of them"

The Choppers, which come in three sizes - 8", 10" and 12" - are a little closer to regular cymbals, being cut from sheets of B8 bronze. There any resemblance ends though, as the Choppers feature an intricate three-layer design that has taken Sabian some time to arrive at.

At the bottom of each Chopper lies a solid disc of bronze, which features swirls of textured lathing for friction-creating purposes. The next layer is a similarly textured disc, which has been cut into a seven-bladed fan shape. Above this, the final layer is also cut into a fan shape, but it's offset so that its blades overlap those of the layer below. Unlike the other two layers it's also buffed to a shine.

All the fan blades are cut in a way that leaves a sharp edge pointing below each incision, again to encourage friction. This sandwich of metal is held together by three rivets that allow a few millimetres of movement, but no more.

By contrast, the Choppers produce blasts of brilliant metallic crunch. We were struck by how many nuances and subtleties could be pulled out of them. A gentle tap brings forth a crisp 'tsk', while increasing the velocity hardens up the sound. The speedy decay, which Sabian has worked hard on, makes it easy to distinguish between regular notes and accents. Their response remains clean throughout all dynamic levels and we found it near impossible to over-hit them.

Also, unlike many effects, their sound didn't become wearing over time."

Review written by Adam Jones ("Sabian Bells and Choppers review", MusicRadar.com, November 24, 2008)

Artist/song where it can be heard: Jojo Mayer

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Source:
¹ Sabian What's Your Sound Catalog 2008