Magetic recording/reproducing method, magnetic reproducing apparatus used therefor, magnetic recording medium and method for producing the same

A method for magnetically recording and reproducing information, said method comprising the steps of:

• recording an information signal by forming a pattern of magnetically soft material in a magnetic recording medium at a first surface of a magnetic recording medium;
• providing a magnetoelectric converting element proximate to and spaced away from said first surface;
• applying a magnetic field to said magnetoelectric element;
• and
• reproducing said information by causing relative noncontacting movement of said pattern and said magnetoelectric converting element and detecting a variation of said magnetic field caused by a presence or absence of said soft magnetic material in portions of said pattern as said portions sequentially come into proximity with said magnetoelectric element during said relative noncontacting movement.