MSJ67
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Q: How can I move a consolidated iTunes library from a backup location, playlists and all, and replace my main library?

ITunes now is pointing to renamed duplicate files (with "_1" at the ends) though the originals still exist in the same folder. How do I get iTunes to point back to the originals, then delete the duplicates, while maintaining an extensive series of playlists I've created? I have considered pulling  correctly named files from a backup location (created by consolidating my iTunes library to that external drive when everything was working correctly) to a new location (or the current one) on my main C: drive, but I'm afraid I would lose my extensive playlists.

Windows 7

Posted on Oct 25, 2015 1:11 PM

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MSJ67

Q: How can I move a consolidated iTunes library from a backup location, playlists and all, and replace my main library?

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  • by MSJ67,

    MSJ67 MSJ67 Oct 25, 2015 5:13 PM in response to MSJ67
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    Oct 25, 2015 5:13 PM in response to MSJ67

    I believe I've solved my own problem.

     

    One lucky detail I neglected to mention: In addition to consolidating my files on the external drive, I also dragged onto that drive a version of my "iTunes" file pointed to the external locations. I accessed that external iTunes folder by following the instructions in here under "Restore Your iTunes Library Backup":

     

    Back up your iTunes library by copying it to an external drive - Apple Support

     

    Then, I reassigned my iTunes library to a new location on my main drive by following these directions:

     

    Move your iTunes Media folder on a Windows PC - Apple Support

     

    My files still are copying over to my main drive (big music library -- been going for hours), but in the new location they seem to be moving with their original file names. And the playlists appear to be intact.

     

    If I hadn't thought to drag in that iTunes organizing file, however, I'd still be lost -- so I'm not sure how many people in the same position this will help, unfortunately.

  • by MSJ67,

    MSJ67 MSJ67 Oct 25, 2015 5:24 PM in response to MSJ67
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Oct 25, 2015 5:24 PM in response to MSJ67

    ... P.S. -- There's one difference from the instructions on that first sheet that I should note: I started with step 4 under "Restore Your iTunes Library Backup" and when I chose the library, I chose the one I'd dragged to the external drive, then I reassigned that one in iTunes to a new location on the main drive. Finally, I followed the instructions on the second sheet to consolidate my library in a new "iTunes Media" folder I created on the main drive. That's still happening. I plan to finish by deleting the remnants of my old "iTunes Media" and then deleting the old "_1" files from my old location