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Restoring iTunes from Time Machine


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My 2012 MacBook Pro hard disc has failed and I'm about to replace this laptop with a new MBP. I have a full back-up on Time Macine on an external hard disc, but I only want to restore my iTunes library (including carefully adjusted meta-data & album art together with playlists) to my new computer. Is there a step by step guide on how to do this selectively to avoid a full Time Machine restore please?

 

PS: am enjoying The Next Track podcasts. 

 

Thanks. 

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There are two things to consider. The first is the iTunes Library.itl file, which contains playlists, ratings, and other metadata. The second is the files themselves, which contain their immediate metadata: name, artist, artwork, etc. So you need to restore both the iTunes folder in your home folder's Music folder, and the media folder, if it's in a different location. 

 

You fist need to turn on Time Machine on the new Mac, and have it inherit the existing backup. Then just go into Time Machine from the Finder, and find the appropriate folders, then restore them. 

I write about Macs, music, and more at Kirkville.

Author of Take Control of macOS Media Apps

Co-host of The Next Track podcast.

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