Abstract: A speed control for varying the video tape speed which is adapted for use with the video tape recorder having a power supply providing a power signal and a capstan motor for driving the video tape in forward and reverse directions. The speed control includes: a capstan drive amplifier receiving the power signal and an input control signal for providing an output signal which is connected to the capstan motor and which is controllably variable in response to the control signal; and a variable speed control providing the controllably variable control signal which is connected to the capstan drive amplifier for controllably varying the output signal of the capstan drive amplifier thereby controllably varying the speed of the capstan motor.