Magnetic recording and/or reproducing system for television and audio signal

摘要

A two speed or multi-speed video tape recorder of the conventional helical scan type in which the audio signal is capable of being recorded as a time compressed signal at one end of each helical video scan, or alternatively, in conventional longitudinal fashion by means of a stationary magnetic head engaging one edge of the tape. At low tape transport speeds, improved bandwidth (and therefore sound fidelity) is obtained by use of the time compression technique; while at higher transport speeds, there are advantages in utilizing the stationary audio head. Circuitry is provided to automatically utilize the time compression technique at lower tape transport speeds and the stationary head longitudinal recording technique at higher tape transport speeds. A pilot or cue signal is recorded on the tape, to automatically control the reproduction circuitry so that both types of recording methods can be interchanged on the same magnetic tape, with the reproducing circuitry switching accordingly between the two modes, as required.