Abstract: With a tape container inserted into the disclosed recorder, two reel drives, two tape guiding and tensioning devices, and a capstan "all" enter cutouts within the tape container. Actuation of a thread-up mechanism within the recorder then causes the following: the capstan is repositioned, thereby urging tape about itself by withdrawing tape from the tape container; the reel-drives engage respectively the supply and take-up reels within the tape container, thereby effectively removing the reels from all contact with and within the tape container; and the tape-guiding and tensioning devices guidingly withdraw additional tape from the tape container so that, except for contact with the tape container reels, the tape has virtually no other contact of any kind with any part of the tape container. Thus, functionally, the tape is transported in reel-to-reel fashion despite the use of a customer-convenience cassette-like tape container.