When I save a GarageBand Project it also saves copies of all the audio files used in the project, doubling up on storage space. I want to save the project using only links to the audio files used. Is there an easy way to do this? Or would I need to manually go into the project folder after saving it, delete all the audio files and replace them with links?
And does Logic have the same issue?
I have now tried deleting the 'Audio Files' directory and then linking it back to the directory containing the original files. This worked when opening the project, but upon saving it again, it now re-saves all the files with a _1 on the end of the filename.
So it seems the only solution to avoid doubling up on space would be to delete your original files after saving the project, which isn't ideal.
Having the option to store copies of the audio files all within the project directory is nice, but having this forced on you as the only option is not.
Thank you kindly for replying, and for sharing the results of your experiment.
If you wish, you could send feedback to those who work behind-the-scenes on the Garageband app. They will likely not reply, yet if others also have this issue, there may be an update that addresses that.
Webform for feedback.
Meanwhile:
Past experience with other creative apps has revealed the discomfort of finding a project becomes inaccessible over time, when one or more of the associated files is no longer accessible at the location it used to be found. It became a wise move to keep all associated files within the one project folder.
If storage space is tight ... an external hard drive can keep hefty files accessible.
Eg: Connect and use other storage devices with Mac - Apple Support
and
File system formats available in Disk Utility on Mac - Apple Support
Hi Dave Kennard,
Welcome to the Apple (user-to-user) Community.
Re: How to save GarageBand Project without files
Am no expert in this area, yet your request surely deserves some response.
Seems a project needs the audio files in the same "package" in order to find them if you re-open the project.
A project is the document that contains all your recordings, the location of media files you add, and all the changes you make.
For saving space: it may work well to have the original files with the project, and "shortcuts" to those files saved where convenient.
Apple Support has articles and User Guides online for how the finer details of projects are set up to work.
Create and save projects in GarageBand on Mac - Apple Support
Intro to sharing in GarageBand on Mac - Apple Support
macOS app user guides: GarageBand for MacUser Guide - Apple Support
More help / info / support / contact options etc:
Garageband Support Website:
GarageBand – Official Apple Support
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How to: Save Logic Pro projects - Apple Support
Logic Pro X User Guide for Mac - Apple Support
More help / info / support / contact options etc:
Logic Pro Support Website:
Logic Pro - Official Apple Support
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All the best :-)
How to save GarageBand Project without files
