A friction force drive capstan tape recorder having movable arms to tension a tape between an idler and a drive capstan. The displacement of the arms is sensed to provide an input signal to a control circuit to vary the rotational torque of the take-up reel motor. This closed loop system allows constant tension to be maintained on the tape and the sensing of the end of the tape. Freely rotatable tape shifters are provided to minimize tension loss. The movable arms are outwardly displaceable to facilitate tape loading by means of a gear train coupled to the operating lever. At the same time the rollers are displaced to facilitate tape handling. A switch may be coupled to the operating lever to provide power to the system or cut it off.