Abstract: In a video signal recording and reproducing apparatus having one or more rotary heads for recording or reproducing video signals in tracks extending obliquely across a magnetic tape as the latter is transported or driven about a guide drum and a fixed head for recording or reproducing control signals at spaced locations along the tape corresponding to the tracks, the tape is automatically brought to rest with its last recorded or reproduced track at a predetermined position relative to the path of the rotary heads whenever driving of the tape is halted, as for the still reproduction of a television picture or for the editing of the video signals recorded on the tape.