In one general embodiment, an apparatus includes a magnetic head. The magnetic head has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion and the second portion providing a tape bearing surface. The first portion has an opening at least partially encircling the second portion. The second portion has at least one array of transducers. A longitudinal axis of each of the at least one array of transducers is defined between opposite ends thereof, and is oriented at an angle relative to a line oriented orthogonally to the intended direction of tape travel thereacross, the angle being between 0.2° and about 10°. The second portion has a first edge oriented at a second angle between 0.2° and about 10° relative to the line, and a second edge opposite the first edge, the second edge being oriented at a third angle between 0.2° and about 10° relative to the line.