a tape player is provided comprising at least two grooves provided in the side plate of a chassis , and a guide member provided on the side of a cartridge holder for insertion thereof into the grooves . each of the grooves includes a horizontal portion and a vertical portion contiguous to the leading edge thereof . according to such an arrangement , the cartridge inserted in the holder is permitted to advance in a horizontal state in the chassis and move in a vertical direction at the front end of the horizontal portion . the point of turning of the cartridge holder is placed in the interior of a cartridge so that the holder is moved to a horizontal state without increasing the amount of movement thereof .