A signal detector to detect symbols in a read back signal. The signal detector includes a first detector to generate raw decisions as a function of the read back signal. A post processor identifies possible defects in the raw decisions. A selector selects a portion of the possible defects and generates modified decisions based upon correcting the portion of the possible defects. At least one signal decoder generates final decisions as a function of the modified and raw decisions. A decision block returns control to the selector in response to detecting excess errors in the final decisions.