We explore a new design approach for low frequency RF coils, where a transmit and receive array are built together in a totally rigid frame, and therefore their B1+ and B1- distributions can be accurately mapped and used as prior information for SNR-optimal combination of signals from different coil elements. Using this principle, a coil is designed for 13C MRS of a pig at 3T (32.13 MHz). We show that at this frequency, the effect of sample loading is minimal, and the prior information obtained in phantoms benefits in-vivo experiments. This one-time calibration allows for optimal combination of coil signals, which is also expected to improve parallel imaging performance.
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