Abstract: A variable speed magnetic medium recording and playback apparatus for reproducing signals prerecorded in defined tracks on a magnetic recording medium by cyclical helical scanning and generating an output video signal subject to noise when more than one track is scanned in a single cycle. The magnetic reproducing apparatus includes a variable speed rotary head for helically scanning the prerecorded signals on the recording medium, a variable speed drive device or a capstan device for moving the recording medium in relation to the rotary head, and a circuit for controlling the speed of the rotary head in correspondence with changes in the speed of the variable speed drive device for reducing noise in the output signal of the apparatus.

Abstract: A reproduction device for a helical scanning type video tape recorder with a head section comprises upper and lower immovable cylinders and a head drum rotatably set between the cylinders. A magnetic tape slides along the peripheral surface of the head section. The head drum is rotated by a head drive section at a prescribed speed. The running speed of the magnetic tape is controlled by a capstan, which is mechanically connected to a capstan device section. Two exclusive special reproduction heads are mounted on the peripheral surface of the head drum. The special reproduction heads are mounted on the peripheral surface at different heights as viewed from the direction in which the rotary shaft of the head drum extends. The height difference is chosen to be smaller than the pitch of the respective adjacent tracks formed on the magnetic tape in accordance with the azimuth recording process.