Abstract: A recording and reproducing apparatus having a holder for holding an inserted cartridge with a recording medium stored therein in which a recording medium is loaded or unloaded at the recording and reproducing position for recording and/or reproducing information as the holder is elevated or lowered, including a driver on which the recording medium rests at the recording and reproducing position and driving the recording medium for recording and/or reproduction and an elevator having an elevating and lowering operation cam formed on its side portion and elevating or lowering the holder when it is slid in parallel to the direction in which the cartridge is inserted.