FIELD: tape drives for cassette recorders. SUBSTANCE: switching device has first and second hold-down rollers mounted on their respective first and second levers for pressing to respective tone arm. Magnetic head is installed on carrying member and is free to displace to different positions relative to tape motion way. Setting lever is mounted for turning or performing translational motion on carrying member and is coupled with first and second levers of hold-down rollers. Proposed switching device is characterized in that its hold-down rollers are mounted for displacement in slots of their respective levers and their relative movement as well as that of their levers is limited by means of spring. EFFECT: simplified design, reduced cost, enhanced reliability of device. 16 cl, 6 dwg
