Editing Tape recorder (section)

=== Mechanical ===
Modern professional recorders usually use a three-motor scheme. One motor with a constant rotational speed drives the [[Capstan (tape recorder)|capstan]]. Usually combined with a rubber pinch roller, it ensures that the tape speed does not fluctuate. The other two motors, which are called torque motors, apply equal and opposite torques to the supply and take-up reels during recording and playback functions and maintain the tape's tension. During fast winding operations, the pinch roller is disengaged and the take-up reel motor produces more torque than the supply motor. The cheapest models use a single motor for all required functions; the motor drives the capstan directly and the supply and take-up reels are loosely coupled to the capstan motor with slipping belts, gears, or clutches.  There are also variants with two motors, one motor being used for the capstan and one for driving the reels for playback, rewind, and fast forward.{{citation needed|date=August 2022}}

[[File:RadioShack-ctr-119.jpg|thumb|A typical portable desktop cassette recorder from [[RadioShack]].]]