A read head circuit includes a read element configured to read data stored magnetically on a platter. The read element includes a first terminal and a second terminal. A normally-ON transistor includes a first terminal, a second terminal and a control terminal. The first terminal is directly connected to the first terminal of the read element. A second terminal is directly connected to the second terminal of the read element. Responsive to the control terminal being powered, the normally-ON transistor provides an open circuit between the first terminal of the read element and the second terminal of the read element. Responsive to the control terminal not being powered, the normally-ON transistor is configured to short the first terminal of the read element to the second terminal of the read element.