Some Ipod help needed.... [Mobile/Archive]

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hiccupleftovers

01-01-2006, 01:49 AM

I just got this Ipod and have already a lot of music ripped from my cds on my computer. I was just wondering whether there was anyway for me to import this either into Itunes or directly onto the Ipod since I really don't want to go through the process of ripping them all over again through Itunes.

Also, since I'm still rather an Ipod noob :cry: I may use this thread to post up my questions about it. Others can feel free to use it as well.

Edit: Also, what would be a good FM Transmitter for it. All the reviews I have read seem to be very very mixed when it comes to this particular accessory.

And do I need to buy an A/C adapter for it separately if I want to charge it while I'm vacation, etc. or was it supposed to have come with one (can't seem to find one with my box)

Graystone

01-01-2006, 01:52 AM

hiccupleftovers

01-01-2006, 01:56 AM

I would just transfer them to itunes then the Ipod. You get a few more features by using the Ipod with Itunes versus just sticking them on the ipod. So just stick them into itunes then the ipod. You could just throw them onto the ipod but they will take up more space.

In what way would just dragging and dropping them (i'm assuming it would be this way) would take up more space than going through itunes? Wouldn't it count as the same HD memory space no matter what or by going through itunes compresses it somehow? Also, how do you grab folders through Itunes?

markholladay

01-01-2006, 02:08 AM

hiccupleftovers

01-01-2006, 02:13 AM

If you have the new Video IPOD. It does not come with a AC power cord, just the USB, which charges it throug your computer.
So if you think that you will not have acces to a computer on vacation a AC power cable might be good. Or possibly a car adapter, which is what I use a lot since I use it in the car alot.
I dont know a whole lot about the FM transmitters. Sorry, i just plug it in through a tape. I dont have a CD player in my car, that is one reason why I got an IPOD. :)

Funny...I actually don't even have a tape player anymore in my car.

So umm...anyway I'm still having some trouble figuring out how to import the music I have already ripped through CDex into Itunes or however and then into my Ipod. Maybe somebody could give step by step instructions on how to do it? I'm really a total noob/novice at this.

hiccupleftovers

01-01-2006, 02:29 AM

I've been reading a lot about alternatives to Itunes such as Ephpod which seem better and don't force me to have to use Itunes. Are they any good at all?

MaskedPlague

01-01-2006, 02:41 AM

Graystone

01-01-2006, 02:54 AM

In itunes, just go under File and click on "Import". Find the folder(s) with your music, and it should work.

I haven't used other programs that work with the iPod. I am just too lazy, but I hear there are some great ones out there.

Yep same here, I just use itunes cause. Also about OP question early yes Itunes compress stuff and when its in itunes it converts the files to AAC their own file system.

ZeroSupporT

01-01-2006, 03:30 AM

Not to support anything but the new morpheus has a synching program for Ipods. Haven't tried it but it could be useful for pre-ripped songs.

hiccupleftovers

01-01-2006, 04:28 PM

Yep same here, I just use itunes cause. Also about OP question early yes Itunes compress stuff and when its in itunes it converts the files to AAC their own file system.

So if it converts the files to AAC would this mean that I should back up my mp3s before importing them? Or maybe I should rephrase that and say that does this mean I lose my original files/mp3s.

hiccupleftovers

01-01-2006, 09:34 PM

bump.

DT778

01-01-2006, 09:44 PM

try winamp (http://winamp.com/plugins/details.php?id=138888)

faq (http://forums.winamp.com/showthread.php?threadid=215342)

usickenme

01-03-2006, 04:09 PM

So if it converts the files to AAC would this mean that I should back up my mp3s before importing them? Or maybe I should rephrase that and say that does this mean I lose my original files/mp3s.

lotta weird info in this thread.

First up. Itunes doesn't convert MP3 files, if you import as an MP3 it will stay as an MP3( unless you manually convert it). My iTunes library has a mix of both types.

Secondly, in Edit>Preferences in the Advanced tab, it shows where the imported songs go and how they are organized. There is an option to make copes the files that are imported into iTunes. I would recommend doing this because it keeps all of the files in the same place (under my documents->my music->itunes) and deleting or archiving the original mp3. Or you could just pick your existing MP3 folder as the library.

Third, you import several ways. The easiest is to drag the files (it works with whole folders as well) into the library window. Alternatively, under the File menu, you can add files and folders to the library.

Fourth, I would wholly recommend sticking with iTunes for using your iPod to the fullest. They are designed to work together. It auto -updates all of your playlists and podcasts. Don't know about you but I make a ton of differenct playlists for a variety of occations and pulling out / adding individual song would be a huge pain w/o iTunes.

Fifth, the iPod charges through the USB cable on your computer. You can buy an AC adaptor brick that has a USB port and uses the cable you got with the ipod.

Finally, I hate to say but there really are no good FM transmitters. I've had a few and they all "kind of" work but don't sound much better than FM radio. iTrip is a popular one.

if you have anything else, let me know.

greenbags125

01-03-2006, 04:20 PM

lotta weird info in this thread.

First up. Itunes doesn't convert MP3 files, if you import as an MP3 it will stay as an MP3( unless you manually convert it). My iTunes library has a mix of both types.

Secondly, in Edit>Preferences in the Advanced tab, it shows where the imported songs go and how they are organized. There is an option to make copes the files that are imported into iTunes. I would recommend doing this because it keeps all of the files in the same place (under my documents->my music->itunes) and deleting or archiving the original mp3. Or you could just pick your existing MP3 folder as the library.

Third, you import several ways. The easiest is to drag the files (it works with whole folders as well) into the library window. Alternatively, under the File menu, you can add files and folders to the library.

Fourth, I would wholly recommend sticking with iTunes for using your iPod to the fullest. They are designed to work together. It auto -updates all of your playlists and podcasts. Don't know about you but I make a ton of differenct playlists for a variety of occations and pulling out / adding individual song would be a huge pain w/o iTunes.

Fifth, the iPod charges through the USB cable on your computer. You can buy an AC adaptor brick that has a USB port and uses the cable you got with the ipod.

Finally, I hate to say but there really are no good FM transmitters. I've had a few and they all "kind of" work but don't sound much better than FM radio. iTrip is a popular one.

if you have anything else, let me know.

You pretty much covered everything. Just to add a bit. If you have the 5g Video/nano, you CANNOT use the itrips that require the separate connector by the headphones. Apple jettisoned that to save on space and costs. Also, if you songs are in WMA format or other popular formats (OGG is not supported), iTunes will convert it automatically. Only M4A (aka MP4 Audio/AAC), MP3, and AA will stay in your library unconverted. Um, everything usickenme said is accurate. I have used many ipods for many years so PM me if you have a question or post it on this thread. Also, iTunes DOES NOT convert video for you (only for 5G), you must use other 3rd party software to do that for you.

javeryh

01-03-2006, 04:26 PM

I have an FM transmitter that was a complete waste of $75. It works kind of but it's really annoying and there's always a varying amount of static. I'd just look into buying a kit and having the USB/firewire cable wired directly to your stereo in the car. You can find something for $200 and it's the only good way to do it, IMO (For example, http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=133614&c=1). I've never tried it but I plan to once Apple releases the interface for Acuras (it's coming soon, I think).

Importing songs already on the computer to iTunes is easy - just do what usickenme said.

CYRiX

01-03-2006, 04:31 PM

File -> Add Folder to Library

All of your mp3's are now in your library.

*Plugs in iPod* Now itunes automatically puts them on the ipod.

how hard is this?

usickenme

01-03-2006, 04:53 PM

Also, if you songs are in WMA format or other popular formats (OGG is not supported), iTunes will convert it automatically. Only M4A (aka MP4 Audio/AAC), MP3, and AA will stay in your library unconverted.

to further confuse you, If you have the "Copy files to iTunes Music folder when adding to library" option checked. It WILL NOT convert the original file, it will simply make a converted copy in MP3. And you will be a prompted when you drop in in the library.

Apossum

01-03-2006, 06:01 PM

I second sticking with Itunes instead of dealing with all those other programs. I really think it's the best music program out there-- it rips to Mp3, burns cds, has a really simple layout that makes tag editing easy and synchs up your music and playlists in the easiest way possible. just plug it in and voila! it tracks any changes made to the library on your pc, like a song name change or new music and copies that to your ipod. Itunes is a great service, and you can always ask for Itunes giftcards to get a ton of new music with. also, it's completely idiot proof and intuitive :)

best of all, you know it'll always be fully supported and free.

now that i think about it, there just isn't a better option.

Frogger

01-03-2006, 08:12 PM

Hmm, I had an itrip, but it died after a few months. so i rate that as a shoddy product. maybe the new one that connects on the bottom is better? when it worked, it sounded fine to me - i guess if you have a multi-thousand dollar system in your car, a $30 connection over FM probably ain't the best. To me and my factory saturn sound, it was no better or worse than the radio.

I didnt know the new ipod didnt have that other little plug on top - you learn something new everyday.

ephpod is sort of good software. When I used it to download some music onto a different computer - a function not supported by itunes, it fucked up my ipod a bit. it worked fine and all, but when I synced it with tunes, it wanted me to reload everything.

xenoman80

01-03-2006, 08:26 PM

well im having probs with mine also it just wont turn on its not on hold or anything like that and its charged but it just wont go on

01-05-2006, 08:36 AM

I have the Monster Cable iCarPlay Wireless FM Transmitter/Charger for iPod. I made the mistake of getting the one with the digital display and customizable station setting (the regular version has like 8 presets which work fine and is cheaper in price. I know this for a fact because I have the digital display version and my twin has the regular version with the presets). These models are a little bit on the pricey side but they are the best FM transmitters on the market. Their also the only transmitters that send out true digital sound.

If your car's antenna is placed in the back of your car or on the top of your car's rear window you'll have a hard time getting a good reception with any FM transmitter. A simple solution to this problem would be to remove your car's antenna (if its the screw out kind) or if you can't remove your antenna simply disengage the wire connects your antenna to your car's stereo (you'll have this really long wire that hooks up the antenna to the stereo. That wire in turn (once removed from the antenna works as a miniature antenna that has a hard time getting strong signals but picks up weaker signals that are close by). This solution works really well an makes the sound quality about even with a tape deck transmitter. The main idea behind this solution is to weaken exterior signals (from radio stations) and since your transmitter is closer to your car it overpowers any other signals. This solutions is effective and works well. It takes about 2 seconds to do. Unfortunately you'll have a hard time picking up radio signals other than your transmitter.

I know this is a little too much info for you but its something good to know when shopping for FM transmitters.

Fire

01-06-2006, 04:11 AM

javeryh

01-06-2006, 10:56 AM

Eeegads!!! aww fuck. Just got an Ipod Video for my birthday and now I need help with it. I connected it to my computer before I installed itunes/the disc that comes with it because I just wanted it to charge, but now it is stuck on the language screen and my computer will not acknowledge that it is connected to it through any drive. HELP!!!!! PLEASE!!!!

You could reset your iPod - hold down play and the center button and it should restart itself. Then install iTunes and plug in your iPod. If you still have problems, go to ilounge.com.

trunks982

01-06-2006, 09:34 PM

i got ipod shuffle. i dragged the music folder in the iTunes library. then i plugged in the shuffle. doesnt look likes it doing anything so i clicked on autofill which it adds the music in the ipod i assume. after that, i eject the shuffle. i pulled the shuffle out of the USB slot. i then put it in loop mode to turn on the shuffle. i pressed play and it doesnt seem to work. what should i do? please help and thanks.

Fire

01-09-2006, 07:58 PM

lotta weird info in this thread.

First up. Itunes doesn't convert MP3 files, if you import as an MP3 it will stay as an MP3( unless you manually convert it). My iTunes library has a mix of both types.

Secondly, in Edit>Preferences in the Advanced tab, it shows where the imported songs go and how they are organized. There is an option to make copes the files that are imported into iTunes. I would recommend doing this because it keeps all of the files in the same place (under my documents->my music->itunes) and deleting or archiving the original mp3. Or you could just pick your existing MP3 folder as the library.

Third, you import several ways. The easiest is to drag the files (it works with whole folders as well) into the library window. Alternatively, under the File menu, you can add files and folders to the library.

Fourth, I would wholly recommend sticking with iTunes for using your iPod to the fullest. They are designed to work together. It auto -updates all of your playlists and podcasts. Don't know about you but I make a ton of differenct playlists for a variety of occations and pulling out / adding individual song would be a huge pain w/o iTunes.

Fifth, the iPod charges through the USB cable on your computer. You can buy an AC adaptor brick that has a USB port and uses the cable you got with the ipod.

Finally, I hate to say but there really are no good FM transmitters. I've had a few and they all "kind of" work but don't sound much better than FM radio. iTrip is a popular one.

if you have anything else, let me know.

I stopped trying to use Itunes since it was just giving me way too many headaches and have started using CDex to rip and ephpod to transfer over. Is there really anything worthwhile for Itunes over ephpod and this setup? What's so useful of the Itunes library? I usually just put the music on the Ipod, back it up on CD and then delete the folder/files from my computer since I don't want to waste the space.

trunks982

01-09-2006, 09:12 PM

no ones answering my question. ive been owning the iPod shuffle for 3 weeks. and i still cant make it work.

adamsappel

01-09-2006, 09:26 PM

trunks, try http://www.ilounge.com/.

Fire

01-13-2006, 02:18 AM

I stopped trying to use Itunes since it was just giving me way too many headaches and have started using CDex to rip and ephpod to transfer over. Is there really anything worthwhile for Itunes over ephpod and this setup? What's so useful of the Itunes library? I usually just put the music on the Ipod, back it up on CD and then delete the folder/files from my computer since I don't want to waste the space.

bump for answers

auralia

01-13-2006, 02:39 AM

i trips suck and i've also tried 2 other fm trasmitiers and they were bad too, direct wire into sterio or using a tape convirter resluts in the best music.

auralia

01-13-2006, 02:43 AM

if you had bigger than a shuffel i think you'd understand the use for itunes i have over 3500 songs in my itunes i can't imagine having to rip them all to itunes again and if your ipod craps out and needs to be fixed often it comes whipped... then i'd have to reburn all that music to my computer, no way.

the_gloaming

01-13-2006, 03:07 AM

Just got a 30GB iPod video whatever thing, I had a question. I haven't had any problems with it except when I use it in my car (and it might be an issue with the car, not the iPod).

Whenever I listen in my car, I plug the tape adapter thing into the iPod. The tape adapter came with an old CD player that no longer works, but it seems to transmit the mp3s fine ... for a while. But lately, the tape has been ejecting itself from the deck and I can't really find a reason why (besides the fact that my car is kind of old and might be messing up on it's own).

My question is -- does the iPod have some kind of encoding in it that could cause the eject of my adapter? I don't want to have to buy another one. I'm pretty sure it's just the tape deck in my car but I'd like to eliminate this option first before shelling out a bunch of money to repair the deck.