First, data is read from tracks formed on a tape-shaped recording medium by heads disposed on a rotary drum, to measure error rates. Next, of the tracks formed on the tape-shaped recording medium, a worst track suffering the highest error rate is detected based on the error rates thus measured. Then, a pair of reproducing heads that can reproduce the worst track thus detected at the lowest error rates is detected from the measured error rates. Thereafter, tracking servo control is performed such that the worst track can be scanned by the pair of reproducing heads. As a result, a reproducing apparatus capable of proper reproduction even when recorded tracks undergo variations in width and reproducing heads are erroneously mounted.