Variable message recorder employing single tape loop having fast reset

Claim 1

A magnetic recording playback device including, a playback head, tape drive means operable at a plurality of speeds, switching means, a two-sides magnetic recording tape formed of a continuous strip with ends joined and having a 180° twist in the loop when disposed in the assembled configuration on said drive means, a tone signal prerecorded on a portion of said tape loop playback device, a light conditioning segment included on one side of said tape, a light source, light responsive means, and said tape drive means comprising: a drive motor initially operated in response to said switching means; first tape advance means operated in response to said motor to advance said tape at a first speed; control means connected to said playback head operated in response to detection of said tone signal recorded on said tape; said first tape advance means rendered inoperative in response to said operated control means; second tape advance means operated in response to said operated control means to advance said tape at a second speed; and said light responsive means operated in response to positioning of said light conditioning segment of said tape source to terminate operation of said drive motor.