A high data-rate stitched pole inductive magnetic write head incorporating a non-magnetic spacer layer and a magnetic pole yoke that is recessed from the magnetic pole tip. Said spacer layer is deposited as part of a self-aligned, patterned photoresist process, wherein the spacer layer is deposited first and the P2 portion of the upper pole assembly is then plated over it to form the pole tip configuration. Increasing the thickness of the spacer layer, while keeping it within a specified tolerance range, allows the upper stitched P3 portion of the pole piece to be recessed relative to the tip of P2. The spacer layer shortens throat height, reduces saturation write current, and improves overwrite and side erasure performance.