A tape drive system according to one general embodiment includes a magnetic head; a drive mechanism for passing a magnetic recording tape over the head; a cable coupled to the magnetic head, the cable comprising a first layer of liquid crystal polymer, and at least 16 electrically conductive leads operatively coupled to the first layer of liquid crystal polymer; and a controller coupled to the cable, and communicating with the head using the cable. A cable according to another general embodiment includes a first layer of liquid crystal polymer; and at least 16 electrically conductive leads operatively coupled to the first layer of liquid crystal polymer.