Abstract: To insure that a tape which is newly inserted into a reversing-type cassette tape transport mechanism will always operate in a first predetermined or priority direction, a direction priority switch (S3) is coupled to the tape cassette receiver (32, 34) to sense introduction of a tape into the receiver. The priority switch is coupled to a logic network which controls change-over of operation of a tape transport system (20, M) if the tape transport system, upon introduction of a tape, was operating counter the priority direction, but leaving unaffected the operation of the tape transport system if it was already in the priority direction. A suitable logic network comprises an AND-gate with a dynamic input, or one with a static input and a buffer memory which is reset upon termination of tape operation. If the tape is merely moved between a transducing position and a park or pause position, no change in direction of tape transport will result.

Abstract: In order to provide a 4-cassette magazine that does not require removal from the recorder-player in order to replace one or more cassettes, the magazine is composed of a turnstile rack providing compartments fitting the cassettes and open to the periphery, seated in a shallow pan having a rim that closes off the periphery of the turnstile except for one gate opening through which a cassette may be ejected or inserted when a compartment containing it is in registry with the gate opening. The stationary pan is part of a deck on which is mounted a rim drive for the turnstile which is combined with an indexing device and arranged to controllably propel a cassette into or out of a compartment when the turnstile is stopped. The pan has an aperture for a cassette lowering and raising device onto which a cassette is slid by the turnstile to bring it into operating position. Another aperture serves to assist cassette insertion or ejection.