A magnetic tape head system and associated method are disclosed. Included is one or more head assemblies each including a base with a row bar coupled thereto with a head situated therein for defining a tape bearing surface defining a tape wrap angle with respect to a horizontal plane. A length of the tape bearing surface is between approximately 0.57 millimeters and 0.7 millimeters and the tape wrap angle is between approximately 0.5 degrees and 1.3 degrees such that a resolution of the magnetic tape head system is substantially independent of a velocity of the tape.