A mode setting arrangement for use in a video tape recorder includes a cam arrangement defined by first and second cams provided integrally and mounted on an axle and a spiral guide groove formed in said cam arrangement with the center of the spiral being at the center of the axle. A first lever is provided operatively in association with the first cam for moving a pinch roller, a second lever is provided operatively in association with the second cam for effecting the transmital of driving force to a reel for winding manetic tape, and arm mechanisms are provided operatively in association with the spiral guide groove for effecting the extraction of magnetic tape from a cassette and extending the magnetic tape around a drum.