SABIAN 17” AAX Suspended Cymbals respond evenly at all dynamic levels. Their tone quality is darker than AA and AA Molto, but brighter than HH, HHX and Artisan. This new design allows for enhanced projection, ideal for a variety of musical settings in junior high, high school, collegiate and professional ensembles. 17\" AAX Suspended Cymbals work well in band and orchestral compositions that do not require a great deal of volume, although they are able to produce more sound than 16\" AAX Suspended Cymbals. They are perfect when a mid-bright sound with shimmering sustain is desired. As a series, AAX Suspended Cymbals produce a sound that blossoms quickly after its played, much like HHX and Artisan though not as dark. The main difference between a suspended cymbal and a crash cymbal is the longer sustain in a suspended cymbal. Therefore, 15\" through 18\" suspended cymbals are an economical choice because they have the versatility for use as crash cymbals.