How to Get Music on an iPod Using Winamp

by Roger Smith
It's possible to manage Apple's iPod in Winamp.

It's possible to manage Apple's iPod in Winamp.

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While the iPod is designed to work best with Apple's own iTunes software, a number of third-party programs also have the capability to transfer music to iPods for on-the-go listening. Winamp is a desktop client commonly used by Windows users. The latest versions of Winamp include out-of-the-box functionality to transfer music to iPods, with no external plugin or technical know-how needed.

Transfering Music to an iPod Using Winamp

Step 1

Open the Winamp software and select "Import iTunes Library." This will copy your music files from your iTunes installation and categorize them in Winamp. If you don't have an iTunes library, you may simply add files to Winamp.

Step 2

Using the iPod-compatible USB cable, connect your iPod to your Windows system. It will automatically show up in the "portables" part of the Winamp software. You may close iTunes if it opens.

Step 3

Select the sync button on the iPod screen. This will allow you to copy files off of your iPod and into Winamp, as well as whether you wish to copy your entire Winamp library.

Step 4

If you choose to manually manage your files, drag and drop individual songs onto the iPod device in Winamp. This will copy them to the device.

Tips

  • If you have a large Winamp music library, choose to manually manage your files instead of setting up auto-synchronization. This will prevent Winamp from consuming your entire iPod hard drive.
  • Be patient with file transfers, especially in large batches. They make take several minutes over the USB connection.

Warnings

  • For maximum compatibility, use Apple's iTunes software.
  • Winamp is not currently available for Mac systems.

About the Author

Roger Smith is a journalist with three years of experience working for media outlets including eHow and Answer Bag. He worked on the student paper at the University of Southern California for three years.

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