Abstract: An improved tape cassette which prohibits the advancement of the tape in a fast forward speed or advance searching mode through its lead portion includes at least a pair of extendable members which pivot or swing outwardly in the event the take-up spool is advanced above a predetermined rate of rotation. However, after a predetermined amount of tape has unwound off of the storage spool, the extendable members are prohibited from pivoting or extending outwardly further. Thereafter, the operator is permitted to fast forward the tape through the remaining portion. In this manner, the lead portion of the tape can only be viewed in a normal play mode and cannot be fast forwarded or advanced through quickly by the operator.