A synchronous machine drive apparatus is provided with a first exciting winding or windings having a first axis and second exciting windings having a second axis. A DC current responsive to the current of the armature windings is applied to the second DC exciting winding. A fundamental exciting current component I.sub.FO and an additional exciting component .DELTA.I.sub.F responsive to the current of the armature windings are applied to the first DC exciting winding or windings, whereby with respect to the current distribution around the gap of the synchronous machine, the armature reaction is correctly compensated.