  Purpose: Receive array layout, noise mitigation and B0 field strength are
crucial contributors to signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and parallel imaging
performance. Here, we investigate SNR and parallel imaging gains at 10.5 Tesla
(T) compared to 7T using 32-channel receive arrays at both fields. Methods: A
self-decoupled 32-channel receive array for human brain imaging at 10.5T
(10.5T-32Rx), consisting of 31 loops and one cloverleaf element, was
co-designed and built in tandem with a 16-channel dual-row loop transmitter.
Novel receive array design and self-decoupling techniques were implemented.
Parallel imaging performance, in terms of SNR and noise amplification
(g-factor), of the 10.5T-32Rx was compared to the performance of an
industry-standard 32-channel receiver at 7T (7T-32Rx) via experimental phantom
measurements. Results: Compared to the 7T-32Rx, the 10.5T-32Rx provided 1.46
times the central SNR and 2.08 times the peripheral SNR. Minimum inverse
g-factor value of the 10.5T-32Rx (min(1/g) = 0.56) was 51% higher than that of
the 7T-32Rx (min(1/g) = 0.37) with R=4x4 2D acceleration, resulting in
significantly enhanced parallel imaging performance at 10.5T compared to 7T.
The g-factor values of 10.5T-32Rx were on par with those of a 64-channel
receiver at 7T, e.g. 1.8 versus 1.9, respectively, with R=4x4 axial
acceleration. Conclusion: Experimental measurements demonstrated effective
self-decoupling of the receive array as well as substantial gains in SNR and
parallel imaging performance at 10.5T compared to 7T.
