apparatus for transporting a tape cassette into engagement with the drive means of a recording and / or playback device . the transporting apparatus includes a movable housing which slidably receives a tape cassette and which is locked against attempts to engage the cassette with the tape drive mechanism unless the tape is properly oriented when inserted . the movable housing is capable of movement in two respectively transverse directions so as to first vertically align the cassette with the drive mechanism and thereafter to move the cassette into engagement with the drive mechanism .