Abstract: This invention is an improved digital data storage magnetic tape transport servo-control system comprising a tape supply reel and supply reel motor, a tension transducer, a head drum having at least one read/write head secured thereto and coupled to a head drum motor, a capstan and a capstan motor, a pinch roller, a take-up reel and a take-up reel motor. A processor provides programmable digital control signals to and responsive to signals from the supply reel, the supply reel motor, the tension transducer, the head drum, the head drum motor, the capstan, the capstan motor, the take-up reel, and the take-up reel motor. The processor controls tape tension in cooperation with the supply reel motor and the tension transducer, controls tape speed in cooperation with the capstan and the capstan motor, controls take-up reel torque in cooperation with the take-up reel and the take-up reel motor, and controls head drum speed in cooperation with the head drum and the head drum motor.