Import MP3 Data (Album & Tracks) into CATraxx

[Roxie2401]

Looking for a good method of importing a new "Album" and "Track" data from an MP3 album into CATraxx.

If I collect an album in MP3 format and save it as a Folder, ITunes (sorry) as an example, will let me "Add Folder to Library" and it imports the album information and tracks.

At this point I am not concerned about the actual audio files, but is there a technique for adding the album and tracks to CATraxx or is this a totally manual process?

An album displays in Windows Explorer 39 tracks, Track Number, Track Title, Track Length, Artist and Album Title.

One thing I tried was to copy the data into an excel spreadsheet file but got lost trying to import that file into CATraxx.

Maybe I've been spoiled with being able to load a CD and use the CDDB or go to Discogs to import an entire album.

I know there are options to "attach" audio files in CATraxx but keep thinking I need the album to exists in the database first.

I know these MP3 "albums" differ from being a true "physical" collection like CDs and Vinyl, but any suggestions on importing would be appreciated.

[DougWilliams]

Create a new database and use the AUDIO > SCAN FOLDER: ADD AUDIO FILES to get a feel for how it works.

Try adding just one folder with a couple albums in it. Though be sure the auto organize is turned off/not checked.

[Roxie2401]

Doug, That works great! Since I don't want the actual audio files - am I correct that once the Album has been added to the database with this technique, I just delete the attached audio files?

Basically, is there no way to just import the album data without the files being attached?

And, you mentioned to be sure the auto organize was turned off --- which option ---- is it AUDIO>Auto Organize? Since this was a test database with nothing in it, that option was grayed out. But after I scanned in the first album, the option was available.  I did notice there is an Auto-Organize on the "Attach Audio Files" but not on the Add Audio Files so I'm guessing if the Album is already in the database you use the "Attach" and if not, use "Scan Folders>Add."

I did work a little with the "File>Import>Excel" but that takes a lot of manipulation of the spreadsheet data.

Your suggestion about a new database worked well --- I think I may use the Scan>Add Audio Files into a separate database and then remember how to move those records over to my main database (back to the Videos where I think you demonstrated that technique.

Since I'm new to the audio files -- where are they?  I went into tools>Options>Default Folders>Audio Files and created a new folder on a separate drive.  After I scanned and Added Audio Files, I checked the new folder and its empty.  Are they still in the iTunes folders?  Am I confusing "Add" vs "Attach" for the audio files?  When do audio files go into the Default Audio Folder?

As usual, thanks for the great help!

[DougWilliams]

Doug, That works great! Since I don't want the actual audio files - am I correct that once the Album has been added to the database with this technique, I just delete the attached audio files?

Use the AUDIO > DETACH AUDIO FILES feature.

Basically, is there no way to just import the album data without the files being attached?

*No

And, you mentioned to be sure the auto organize was turned off --- which option ---- is it AUDIO>Auto Organize?

The tick box should be unchecked. The overall advice on using AUTO ORGANIZE is a cautionary tale for those starting out adding audio files to CATraxx.

As usual, thanks for the great help!

You're welcome.


*Not entirely true but for PRACTICAL purposes it is.