The present disclosure generally relate to tape assembly implementations for magnetic recording devices, such as tape embedded drives (TEDs). In one or more embodiments, a first reel and a second reel are mounted at stationary positions. One or more of the first reel and/or the second reel includes a hub mounted to a spindle, and a single flange extending relative to the hub. In one or more embodiments, one or more of a first reel and/or a second reel each includes a flangeless hub mounted to a spindle.