The data storage subsystem is implemented using redundancy groups of data storage modules, at least one module of which comprises a plurality of data storage elements. In this manner, the one dimensional data storage module redundancy group is expanded in another dimension by the use of a plurality of storage elements to implement each of the data storage modules. Enhanced performance is obtained by having more actuators concurrently accessing data. The reconstruction of data due to an equipment failure is therefore localized to a data storage element rather than requiring the replacement of an entire data storage module.