Essential iTunes Windows Plugins

Updated:  10/17/07 - moved most plugins to "Don't Use Anymore"

This isnt' really a spiritual issue, but I use iTunes on windows XP.   In addition to iTunes, there are some cool things you can use with it:

• iTunes - if you are still using Winamp or Windows Media Player, I strongly suggest you try itunes.  It is way better than WMP, and I think it's easier to use than winamp.  BTW, after you install it, I recommend the following setup items in Edit > Preferences:
  • Podcasts Tab:  Check for new epidisodes (every hour), Keep (last 10)
  • Sharing:  Turn it on for your friends on the network
  • Advanced > General:  Keep iTunes folder organized (this is a good idea)
  • Advanced > Importing:  Import Using (MP3 encoder) ***this is important because the default is AAC - it's a better codec, but mp3's are easier to share across other players.

• iTunes Library Updater - have a bunch of items in your library whose file links/locations are broken?  iTLU can fix them.
• iTunes Art Importer - nice automated and free way to get album art from Amazon.
• Tagscanner - this is not just for iTunes.  If you have a lot of files that are improperly named or tagged, this can help you fix that in batches using rules.  Very handy for messy file name and tag directories.

DON'T USE ANYMORE

• iTunes Agent - allows you to sync itunes with non-ipod players like my Zen
• iTunesKeys - a system-tray utility that allows you to control iTunes with global hotkeys or from the tray's icon menu
• iTunesOnTop - one annoying thing about iTunes is that the miniplayer doesn't stay on top even if you set it to do so in the Preferences.  Download this DLL to the main Program Files\iTunes folder and the next time you open itunes, the miniplayer WILL stay on top.
• MixMeister BPM Analyzer - want the Beats Per Minute tag filled out on your songs?  Download this free app and run it (takes a few seconds per song).  When done, run iTunes Library Updater (above) to see the results in iTunes.
• Other Stuff - there are plenty of plugins for displaying what you are currently listening to on your web site (brandon fuller's looks good), or integrating with AIM, getting album art etc., but I don't care bout those. Try them at your own risk.
• OurTunes - when you are sharing music across a network (you set that in Edit > Preferences > Sharing), you can not copy the music to your local computer, only listen to it. However, with OurTunes, you can actually get the music.  You may still have to do a File > Add Folder to Library to get iTunes to see the music (p.s. I am not advocating stealing music ;)