How to Import Songs Into iTunes

By eHow Electronics Editor

Rate: (7 Ratings)

The preferred file format for iTunes is M4A but you can play songs that are in other audio file formats as well. You can import songs into iTunes from a CD or from your Windows Media collection or even your iPod! Here's how.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Account with iTunes
  • Computer
  • iPod

Import From a CD

Step1
Insert a CD into your computer’s CD-ROM drive. Open iTunes. After your computer reads the CD, it should appear as an icon in the "Source" list.
Step2
Click on the icon for the CD to display its contents.
Step3
Click the "Import" button in the top right to add all the tracks. Alternatively, drag and drop individual tracks into your library.

Import Files From Your Hard Drive

Step1
Click on "File," and then "Add to Library."
Step2
Locate audio files on your hard drive. Select one and click "Open" to add it to your library.
Step3
If the file format is incompatible with iTunes, iTunes will ask if you want to convert it. Click "Yes" to begin conversion. You will hear a sound when the conversion ends.

Import From Your iPod

Step1
Connect your iPod to your computer.
Step2
Click your "iPod" icon. This brings up the "Summary" screen. If the screen doesn't appear, click the "Summary" tab.
Step3
Select the "Manually Manage Music or Enable Disk Use" option.
Step4
Minimize iTunes on your desktop.
Step5
Open up "My Computer."
Step6
Click "Tools" and select "Folder Options." Click the "View" tab.
Step7
Select the "Show Hidden Files and Folders" option under "Advanced Settings." Click "Apply to All Folders," and then click "OK."
Step8
Bring up iTunes again.
Step9
Click on "File," and then "Add to library."
Step10
Browse to "My Computer" and find your iPod. It should appear as if it is an external hard drive.
Step11
Open up the "iPod Control Folder."
Step12
Open up the "Music" folder. Examine the contents of your iPod. The filenames will look jumbled, but if you let your mouse cursor hover over a file, the song information will appear.
Step13
Select a song and click "Open."

Tips & Warnings

  • Keep all downloaded music files in a designated folder.
  • If you have set your iPod is set for manual management, you won’t lose any songs when you connect it to someone else’s computer. Just make sure you don’t synchronize it to another machine!
  • Some file types may require you to download an additional codec for conversion.

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article:  How to Import Songs Into iTunes

eHow Electronics Editor

eHow Electronics Editor

Category: Electronics

Articles: See my other articles

Related Ads