Self-consistent computer calculations are used to investigate the effect of media orientation on digital recording. The vertical contribution to the readback pulse is found to roll off more slowly than the in-plane, hence vertically oriented and isotropic media have the highest amplitude at extremely high densities. A loop model is derived for media exhibiting cubic anisotropy. Results on the possible advantages of such a medium over isotropic media with uniaxial anisotroy are inconclusive.