Abstract: In a matrix printing head having a plurality of printing wires, mounting the printing wires for sliding movement between a non-printing rest position and a printing position, a first electromagnet for driving each printing wire from the rest position to the printing position including an electromagnet comprising a yoke having a pole surface, a winding and a pivotable armature connected to each wire and having a pivot, the improvement comprising a second electromagnet for pulling the armature away from the pole surface and forming an armature stop to define the rest position and forming a gap between the armature and the pole surface, wherein each electromagnet comprises a structure composed of light metal and forming segmental recesses therein for receiving the yokes and windings and secured therein with a casting compound, wherein the light metal structure has one face in a plane and wherein the pole surfaces are in said plane, spacer members disposed between the face of the light metal structure and the arm