Abstract: A tape recorder of the auto-reverse type wherein all the tape drives including the constant-speed drive of a tape, the rapid drive thereof, and the change-over between the normal and reverse drives are executed by means of a single capstan employing a single motor as its drive source. All the reel rest drives including the constant-speed drives of reel rests, the rapid drive thereof, the change-over between the normal and reverse drives to be made following the tape drives by the capstan are executed by means of a single idler employing the single motor as its drive source. All the tape controls are achieved by the use of the single capstan, the single idler and the single motor. The change of direction of rotation of the single idler and capstan, is effected by a normal-reverse change-over of the single motor. The operation of alternately bringing the single idler into engagement with or disengagement from the reel rests is attained by the turning force of the normal - reverse change-over of the motor.