Machine switches off after one reverse. The machine will not record. If the recording tabs are removed it will not record. Either use another tape or place scotch tape where the tabs used to be. Machine records the radio instead of conversation.
Recording plays back too fast.
You recorded with your speed control not set to full speed. Is the volume control on or off. It needs to be on in order to hear. This needs to be off in order to play a tape. This needs to be OFF in order to play a tape.