PURPOSE: To increase the contour compensation efficiency by detecting the frequency component of the video signal via the frequency detector circuit, varying the control signal by the detection output and delivering the contour compensation signal by means of the variable delay line.

CONSTITUTION: Variable dealy line 8 is composed of the iron-rare earth alloy or the like and varies the Young's modulus to delay the propagation time of the short waves. While frequency component detector circuit 20 detects the frequency component of the video signal; the control signal is varied by control line 14 by the detection output; and the contour compensation signal is delivered via delay line 8. Thus, the most effective contour compensation is ensured to the frequency in accordance with the video signals which change momentarily, increasing the contour compensation efficiency.