Abstract: A data tape recorder having a data compressor/expander for recording digital information on a magnetic recording tape and for reproducing it therefrom. In a digital audio tape recorder having a 4-head deck each provided with two recording heads and two reproducing heads, a switching pulse interval is channel-counted to a multichannel interval, and if the channel count signal and a channel selection signal by user are identical, only a reproducing signal of the selection channel among the signals being reproduced from the reproducing heads is expanded and reproduced. Moreover, in order to record data to a corresponding channel, the expanded reproducing data and compressed input data are multiplexed by the channel selection signal. Thus, the record/reproduction of a multichannel for a long time is possible.

Abstract: A multiple audio signal processing system is disclosed which comprises: a composite system combining a digital audio tape recorder and a compact disc player; a system controller for controlling the operation of the composite system in accordance with the data inputted into a data input of the composite system; and a signal path control circuit for deciding the signal paths in accordance with a series of control signals outputted from the system control circuit. The device of the present invention makes it possible that the output signals of the compact disc player and input signals from the external can be selectively recorded on a tape loaded in the deck of the digital audio tape recorder, and the output signals of the digital audio tape recorder and the compact disc player can be outputted to the outside in accordance with the desire of the user.