Abstract: A magnetic orientation sensor for magnetic recording media includes a transducer that writes a magnetic pattern on the recording medium and then reads it back. The reading is taken a number of times at a given location but with the magnetic flux traveling in various directions. The strength of the readback signal is used to interpret the magnetic properties of the medium, in particular a direction of orientation which is the preferred or strongest magnetic conductor. The transducer and the medium are stationary with respect to one another at each measurement. The transducer or magnetic head consists of a circular or ring-type structure having a rotating center spindle having a longitudinal bar of magnetic conductive material on the face thereof to create a magnetic field of varying orientation during the writing and reading process.