Yes, I think all cassette mechanisms are basically made that way. With a tape recorder like this it is like having to stand behind the machine and operate the correct key, and operating it is confusing if you are used to the more common lay flat type. I have always taken the symbol << to mean rewind and for >> to mean fast forward, but on this "type" of stand-up cassette recorder they are reversed. >> is rewind.
If you lay it down on its back with the keys facing you it is a "normal" tape machine.
Mike
If you lay it down on its back with the keys facing you it is a "normal" tape machine.
Mike