New computer+Old Library

[xsll319]

Okay so, I already have a 4gb nano and I am getting a new 30gb ipod soon because I have a big library. My problem is I am getting a new computer soon and I might not have my current computer to work with to transfer my library. I have found a method do use the ipod as a disk http://discussions.apple.com/messageview.jspa?messageID=797432 but I wanted to know if anyone here has tried it so I can make sure it works.

Thank you. :)

[honeybee1236]

If you want to transfer the iPod contents back to the computer you should put the iPod on 'manually manage music' while you still have your computer. Just hook it up and highlight the iPod then under the 'summary' tab check the box. This will stop the iPod from auto sync'ing with iTunes when connected to the new computer and you can first transfer the music from the iPod to the computer.

If you have an external hard drive then you can transfer your library to it and then just connect it to the new computer. Here is an up-to-date tutorial on how to transfer from iPod to computer and software you can use to do this: Copying music from iPod to computer (http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/articles/comments/copying-music-from-ipod-to-computer/)

This article will show you which files you can save to recreate your playlist, playcounts, etc. if you want to do this as well. The Complete Guide to Backing Up iPod & iTunes Music (http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/articles/comments/the-complete-guide-to-backing-up-ipod-and-itunes-music/)

See this thread for detailed information on "How to sync or backup ratings and playlist with iTUNES or PC?" (http://forums.ilounge.com/showthread.php?t=164503)

[xsll319]

Thank you!

If I try podutil even though I do not need it now would it mess up my library and double the songs I have?

[xsll319]

Oh and does podutil make the files the same format as they are on the ipod? Or does it change it?