A radio frequency (RF) coil array is used in resonance imaging and/or analysis of a subject located within a cylindrical space in which a magnetic field is operatively applied in an axial direction (z). The coil array comprises a plurality of coil elements (10, 11, 12, 13) angled relative to each other about the axis of the cylindrical space, each coil element having a pair of main conductors extending generally parallel to the direction of the magnetic field and located on diametrically opposite sides of the cylindrical space, and a pair of connection conductors connected between respective ends of the main conductors. Each coil element has its maximum sensitivity near the centre of the cylindrical space, so that the subject under study is located in a region of maximum sensitivity.