<p>A magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus and a method for braking a reel assembly (25) comprising a lower disc (27) rotatably supported by a stationary shaft (23) located on the deck and an upper disc (26) arranged on the stationary shaft to rotatably coupled to an upper portion of the lower disc. Thus, the upper and lower discs are rotatably coupled to a tape reel of a tape cassette. A disc gear (28) is positioned between the upper (26) and lower (27) discs to receive power from a capstan motor. A friction member is disposed between and in contact with the lower disc.</p>
