Abstract: A cassette convey means can carry a plurality of cassettes, and can selectively convey and mount a cassette to a cassette driving section, or can externally feed the mounted cassette. A cassette selection/setting means outputs designation data for selecting and designating one of the cassettes. An operation mode input means outputs an operation signal including cassette subsidiary information such as a timer setting instruction or remaining amount display data for the cassette designated by the cassette selection setting means, or a tape driving instruction. A cassette information storage means stores information of each of the plurality of cassettes. A system controller checks conditions of pieces of input information from the above-mentioned means, selects an optimal cassette according to a purpose, and controls the cassette convey means to mount the selected cassette on the tape driving section.