On a pit information surface (22d) of a read-only optical disk (22), a
protective layer (22f) suited for a floating-type or a sliding-type
magnetic head (3) used for a magnetic field modulation type
magneto-optical disk is formed. A reproducing operation with respect to
the optical disk (22) is performed while allowing the magnetic head (3)
to slide on the protective layer (22f). Accordingly, a magnetic head does
not need to be separated from a disk in reproduction. Thus, an optical
disk device can be manufactured at lower cost and reduced in size, and a
high-speed seek can be realized. Commonality of a disk cartridge (32)
with the magnetic field modulation type magneto-optical disk also can be
achieved. An optical disk system that is user-friendly thus can be
obtained.