An apparatus according to one approach includes an array of skew detection transducers. An array of write transducers is spaced from the array of skew detection transducers along an intended direction of tape travel thereacross. An array of read transducers is aligned with the array of write transducers in the intended direction of tape travel. The apparatus also includes a first actuator configured to operatively exert a force on the array of skew detection transducers for orienting a longitudinal axis of the array of skew detection transducers substantially orthogonal to the actual direction of tape travel across the array of skew detection transducers. A magnetic recording medium according to one approach includes a magnetic recording tape having a longitudinal axis extending between distal ends thereof, the magnetic recording tape having vertical bars written in servo-skew patterns thereof, the vertical bars being oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tape.