In program retrieval using a magnetic tape in which programs are classified by index signals recorded on the tape, an image at the beginning of each program is displayed in a list on a multi-screen, and a desired program is directly selected using a count value of index signals. In recording, an index signal is recorded at a starting point of recording. When preparing a multi-screen at the time of reproducing, an image reproduced a predetermined time after detection of an index signal is reduced and stored in a memory.