Tracking error detection system having at least two magnetic heads with opposite azimuths and circuitry for detecting tracking error by determining a phase difference of output signals from all circuits based on signals produced by the magnetic heads

A tracking error detection system, for a digital magnetic recording/reproducing apparatus for recording/reproducing digital signals on/from first and second recording tracks on a magnetic tape, said system comprising:

• a multi-head magnetic head assembly having a single base, a first head and a second head disposed in a multiple configuration on said base, said first head for recording/reproducing a first digital signal on/from said first recording track and said second head for recording/reproducing a second digital signal on/from said second recording track, said first head being oriented to have a first azimuth having any angle between zero and thirty degrees for outputting a first reproduction signal and said second head being oriented to have a second azimuth having any angle between zero and thirty degrees in an opposite direction to said first azimuth for outputting a second reproduction signal;
• a first PLL circuit for generating a first clock signal on the basis of said first reproduction signal;
• a second PLL circuit for generating a second clock signal on the basis of said second reproduction signal;
• and
• a phase comparator unit for comparing the respective phases of the first and second clock signals,
• wherein said phase comparator unit comprises a first frequency dividing circuit receiving and frequency dividing said first clock signal so as to have a first low frequency in a dynamic range for detecting tracking errors and providing a first output signal, a second frequency dividing circuit receiving and frequency dividing said second clock signal to have a second low frequency in said dynamic range and providing a second output signal and a phase comparator circuit for comparing phases of said first output signal and said second output signal to determine a phase difference therebetween.