Abstract: RF coil apparatus is provided for use in an MR imaging system, wherein the B.sub.0 field is oriented in a specified direction. The apparatus comprises a coil structure positioned in selected relationship with the B.sub.0 field, the coil structure comprising a pair of elongated coil members in spaced-apart parallel relationship, and a selected number of lateral coil members positioned along the elongated coil members in spaced-apart parallel relationship with one another. A number of first capacitive elements, each of a first capacitance, are selectively positioned along the elongated coil members, and a second capacitive element is included in each of the lateral coil members, each of the second capacitive elements being of a second capacitance. A first coupling network operates the coil structure to selectively transmit and receive a first RF field component directed along a first axis which is orthogonal to the B.sub.