A magnetic recording tape writing apparatus includes an array of write transducers extending along a common tape bearing surface. Each of the write transducers has a lower pole having a lower pole tip, a lower coil layer above the lower pole, an intermediate coil layer above the lower coil layer, and an upper coil layer above the intermediate coil layer. An upper pole is positioned above the upper coil layer, the upper pole having an upper pole tip. In one embodiment, a nonmagnetic write gap is positioned between the pole tips, a plane of deposition of the write gap extending between the intermediate coil layer and the lower coil layer. In another embodiment, a nonmagnetic write gap is positioned between the pole tips, a plane of deposition of the write gap extending between the intermediate coil layer and the upper coil layer.