A media processing device executes a retard preparation operation that moves a separation roller and a paper return lever at a desired time even when the moving mechanism that moves a separation roller and a paper return lever together, and the conveyance mechanism that conveys the medium, share a common drive source. A printer has a moving mechanism that executes a retard preparation operation that moves the paper return lever and separation roller in conjunction with each other. Drive power from the conveyance motor is transferred to the moving mechanism. The printer also has a trigger lever that can move between an interference position physically interfering with the moving mechanism and preventing the retard preparation operation from starting, and an actuator that moves the trigger lever from the interference position to a non-interference position.