The present invention relates to a tape cassette comprising a first portion adapted for insertion into a tape recorder and connected to a second portion comprising tape storage means and being adapted to be located outside a tape recorder when the first portion is placed therein, the first and second portions being arranged generally side-by-side relative to each other, and wherein the cassette further comprises guide means arranged for guiding the tape "up and out" of the first cassette portion and into the second portion outside the tape recorder comprising the tape storage means, typically in the form of two spools. By this arrangement the cassette can be used in combination with a tape cassette recorder system comprising a tape cassette engaging lift device into which the tape cassette is loaded through a front opening and subsequently displaced downwardly in a shaft into a position where the tape engages the recording means.