johnmh1719
Level 1 (0 points)

Q: Does Consolidate Files create dups of files already in the target iTunes Media Library?

I have iTunes 12.2 and have relocated the iTunes Media folder location.  After doing this I "Organized Library" and "Consolidated Files".  About 80% of the way through the operation stopped.  I subsequently found the file that wouldn't load and removed it.  If I hit Consolidate Files again without changing the iTunes Media folder again to try to pick up the remaining 20% that didn't relocate will it duplicate files already relocated?

Posted on Aug 23, 2015 8:00 AM

by turingtest2,Solvedanswer
turingtest2 turingtest2
Level 10 (85,368 points)
iPod
A:

As answered here: Re: Why does iTunes duplicate, triplicate, or even quadruple songs I import into it?

 

No, it should be fine. When files are consolidated iTunes checks the current location of each track. It only makes copies of the files located outside of the media folder, then updates the path for that entry to point to the new file.

 

tt2

Posted on Aug 24, 2015 9:30 AM

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johnmh1719

Q: Does Consolidate Files create dups of files already in the target iTunes Media Library?

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  • Helpful answers

  • by jeremy_v,Helpful

    jeremy_v jeremy_v Aug 24, 2015 8:54 AM in response to johnmh1719
    Community Specialists
    Aug 24, 2015 8:54 AM in response to johnmh1719

    Hi johnmh1719,

     

    Welcome to the Apple Support Communities!

     

    I understand that you changed the iTunes Media folder location on your Windows computer and then started the process to Consolidate Files by navigating to File > Library > Organize Library > Consolidate files. I also understand that there was a file that halted the process which you subsequently located and removed and now you are wondering what will happen if you continue the process of consolidating files. 

     

    If this is correct, continuing the process should not duplicate the files already relocated. Once they are copied into the iTunes library, iTunes should reference those files going forward.

     

    However, to be safe, I would recommend having the attached article below on hand if the process does not work as expected. 

     

    Find and remove duplicate items in your iTunes library - Apple Support

     

    Best regards

  • by turingtest2,Solvedanswer

    turingtest2 turingtest2 Aug 24, 2015 9:30 AM in response to johnmh1719
    Level 10 (85,368 points)
    iPod
    Aug 24, 2015 9:30 AM in response to johnmh1719

    As answered here: Re: Why does iTunes duplicate, triplicate, or even quadruple songs I import into it?

     

    No, it should be fine. When files are consolidated iTunes checks the current location of each track. It only makes copies of the files located outside of the media folder, then updates the path for that entry to point to the new file.

     

    tt2