Avoiding wipe-out of Ipod's mp3 files

[MAMBO_MAN]

In the past, I had some technical problems with the Ipod, requiring me to delete & re-install the Ipod software for my 40
gig Ipod. At that time, when I activated the musicmatch 7.5 connection to the Ipod, I lost all the mp3 files previously installed on the Ipod--i.e. it returned to the factory default settings.

I believe I may have to completely re-install Winxp and wish to avoid the same mishap with the IPod when I again connect it to
musicmatch.

Is there a work-around to avoid this when I again install the Ipod software (which contains the musicmatch 7.5)?

Thanks

[honeybee1236]

First, welcome to the lounge.

Yes, you need to some 3rd party software like iPod Agent or EphPod (they are both freeware) located here in the download section at the lounge. This will allow you to import your music back to your computer.

There is also WinAmp (I believe this is also freeware) here in one of the threads you can use also. If I find it I will post it for you here. I think it is in the music section her at the lounge.

Here's the "How To" instructions:
http://www.ipodlounge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=threadid=4719

FYI: **Do not download iTunes because it will delete all your songs on your iPod. It has a default setting that will sync your iPod to it, and if there are no songs in iTunes there will be no more songs on your iPod.**

[MAMBO_MAN]

Thanks for your quick reply.
I am aware that there are ways to copy the ipod files back to the computer.
I just wished to avoid the hassle of re-loading the ipod by some
little "trick of the trade" when I activate the ipod thru musicmatch--i.e certain choices to click (or not click) on.

Also, do you happen to know whether the "volume leveled" mp3 files I already copied to the Ipod (via the"volume leveling" option in Musicmatch) would retain this characteristic upon copying back to my computer (volume leveling), so I could just normally re-transfer them rapidly back to the Ipod, without having to again go through the longer "volume leveling" option on transfer of these files?

Thanks