Shuffler: automated file loading without iTunes

Shuffler is an app that, like iPod shuffle Database Builder, obviates the need to use iTunes to manage music on your iPod shuffle. The notable differences between the two programs are that Shuffler is Windows-only, works with any DAP that works as a Mass Storage Class-compliant device (meaning it shows up as an external hard drive on your computer), and handles the automating of the file transfer itself. You configure it with source and destination folders, which get automagically synced whenever you plug in your iPod shuffle (or other player), bypassing the need to use iTunes for music management. Power to the file system organizers, yo.

[met @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

Thats neat. I will try it out soon :)

[Opspin @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

Even better, you can put the program on the actual iPod and load it from any computer, without having to install it on any computers.

That's what I do with Foobar2000 with the FooPod extention

[Richard @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

What I'd really like to see is something that "fools" iTunes into thinking my Creative Nuvo is a shuffle. Any suggestions?

[mike @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

can you do this kind of thing with automator?

[aequitas @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

Richard: suggestion - buy a shuffle.

[Marlon @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

OR you can just use Window Media Player 10 to configure an autoplaylist of XXX MBs of random songs from your WMP library. You can get pretty creative w/ the selection settings. Whenever you plug in your player, as long as WMP is loaded, syncing is automatic.

This does 'autofill' well for those who done have or care for itunes.

[Joey Geraci @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

Not the only one Marlon, I definitely find the "ease of use" of iTunes to be highly overrated. The whole ipod "phenomenon" actually.

[Sean Shrum @ Dec 19th 2005 1:20AM]

Woot! My app front-paged on Engadget!

They left out the link to the Shuffler area:

http://www.shrum.net/code/shuffler

Not to mention the fact that Shuffler is used *in conjunction* with the Database Rebuilder. Oh well. Factuals and updates can be found at the site above.

Enjoy. - S