A read head comprises an MR element, two bias field applying layers, and two
conductive
layers. The two bias field applying layers are adjacent to both side portions of
the MR element, and apply a bias magnetic field to the MR element along the longitudinal
direction. The two conductive layers feed a sense current to the MR element, each
of the conductive layers being disposed to be adjacent to one of surfaces of each
of the bias field applying layers and to overlap one of surfaces of the MR element.
The conductive layers are each made of a gold alloy having a resistivity of less
than 22 cm and a hardness as high as or higher than the hardness
of a material used for making the bias field applying layers.
