A recording and reproducing system for performing a read-after-write operation, and for performing automatic tracking. The system includes a magnetic head for recording/reproducing information from/onto a tape. The magnetic head has a first gapped portion and a second gapped portion. The system further includes a reading circuit for reading information recorded on the tape, a writing circuit for writing information onto the tape, a changing device for selectively connecting the first gapped portion to either the reading circuit or the writing circuit, and for selectively connecting the second gapped portion to either the reading circuit or the writing circuit, and a comparator for comparing the outputs from the first and second gapped portions when the first and second gapped portions are each connected to the reading circuit by the changing device, and for outputting a signal representative of that comparison. The system also includes a motor operatively coupled to the output of the comparator for moving the magnetic head in a width direction relative to the tape in accordance with the output of the comparator.