Sabian's classifies their HHX series as "Modern Dark . . . drier, dirtier, funkier". The word "Dark" translates to lots of low frequency undertones, and I think, after having analyzed quite a few cymbals, "dirtier" means more midrange wash . . . more "SHHHHH" to the sound. One of the models is the HHX X-Plosion Crash, and that means it plays loud and is meant to be hit hard. The 19" version reviewed here delivers.