Apparatus and method for recovering data from a multi-channel input signal, such as but not limited to a readback signal from a bit patterned medium (BPM) having a plurality of subtracks. In accordance with some embodiments, a single input single output (SISO) equalizer is adapted to generate equalized outputs responsive to alternating subchannels of the multi-channel input signal. A detector is adapted to generate estimates of data symbols represented by the input signal responsive to the equalized outputs. A switching circuit is adapted to switch in different equalizer coefficients for use by the SISO equalizer for each of the alternating subchannels in the input signal.