In a method of processing recording media on which magnetic ink characters are printed, the media is transported at a first speed in an upright position along a transportation path from a supply unit to a discharge unit. The magnetic characters are read and output signals representative of the reading generated. The output signals are analyzed, including comparing the output signals with previously stored signal patterns of magnetic ink characters to determine if the magnetic characters can be recognized or not. The transporting of the recording media is paused, or slowed to a second speed substantially lower than the first speed, for a period of time during the analyzing of the output signals. A processing apparatus includes components for carrying out the operations of such method.