A magnet structure for a magnetic data storage medium erasing apparatus includes a first half comprising a first plurality of magnets arranged symmetrically, having polarization direction of adjacent magnets in quadrature and at an oblique angle with respect to a plane of symmetry. A second half comprises a second plurality of magnets arranged symmetrically, having polarization direction of adjacent magnets in quadrature and at an oblique angle with respect to the plane of symmetry. The second half is arranged symmetrically with respect to the first half, wherein the first half and the second half are separated by an air gap disposed about the plane of symmetry.