Abstract: A low power consumption type tape reader permits miniaturization of reel motors and ensures stopping a tape (3) at a first rewind stop code, even if the response of a brake magnet (11) is somewhat poor. When a rewind command is received, the rotational speed of a capstan motor (12) is switched from a forward low speed to a reverse low speed, and then a feed magnet (14) is actuated to rewind the tape (3). The rotational speed of the capstan motor (12) is gradually increased to a reverse high speed. When a rewind stop code is detected, the speed of the capstan motor (12) is gradually decreased to the reverse low speed, and then the brake magnet (11) is actuated to stop the feed of the tape (3) temporarily. A reversible counter (40) stores the number of rewind stop codes detected during the time interval between the detection of the first rewind stop code and the temporary stopping of the feed of the tape (3).