A threshold detector is coupled to a ''''write'''' head in a recording apparatus to detect the leading edge of the first transition of previously recorded data and provide a control signal therefrom. A control circuit coupled to the threshold detector switches the recording apparatus to the ''''write'''' or recording mode of operation immediately upon the detection of the predetermined threshold voltage from the write head so that the same head then immediately switches its operation and operates to record new data information directly and accurately over the previously recorded data. By utilizing this method, new records can automatically be inserted accurately in a particular segment of a previously recorded tape, such as in a recording format for digital information which employs segments of recorded information as discreet records, with an inter-record gap between each record, with each record including a preamble immediately followed by the data information.