Abstract: A tape recording and/or reproducing apparatus includes a tape cassette holder or carriage which is movably mounted on the housing of the apparatus for movement between a first loading position extending from the housing and a second recording and/or reproducing position in the housing. The tape is placed in the cassette holder in its first position and the holder is then moved manually to the operating position. As this is done a spring used for returning the holder to its first position, in an eject operation, is energized so that the cassette holder is automatically returned back to its first position by the energized spring when the eject mechanism of the apparatus is operated. In this apparatus an automatic speed adjusting mechanism is provided which does not disturb or interfere with movement of the cassette holder from its first, eject position to its second, operating position, but which controls the speed of movement of the cassette holder during the eject operation.