In deciding which music organizer software is best for your needs, it is helpful to make a list of the features and functions that are most important to you. Most computers come bundled with software to help you manage your music collection to some extent. Before seeking a new music organizer, be sure to explore the software you might already have to see if it offers the functions you want. There are many programs available online that are either free or low cost to help you manage your digital music collection. Reading expert and consumer reviews and ratings can help you pinpoint the right one.
A customizable and attractive user interface helps the user with both listening to and organizing music. A basic music organizer will allow you to play, view, and organize your collection by song or album title, artist, or music genre. Most also include sorting by date last played, number of times played, and usually lets the user give each track a rating. Beyond these basics, you can narrow your choices by seeking management software compatible with your computer and music players as well as the sources used to download digital music.
Most music organizer software also supports downloading and display of album cover art and less commonly, album notes. Some applications support online social interaction so you can share your thoughts about music on the Internet. Also consider if support for streaming audio and Real Small Syndication (RSS) feeds are important to you, as not all organizers can handle them. Some applications can import playlists from other music organizer applications, something that is very helpful when upgrading your organizer.
Some digital music organizers include an add-on database application allowing users to view and organize their collections in almost any way imaginable. For example, a database can provide reports on every mp3 file that includes specific artists, songs by specific writers or music publishers, albums that have the same artists, and more. If you want to synchronize your computer’s mp3 collection with other devices such as laptop computers, portable players, and mobile phones, make sure the software is capable. Automatic detection and deletion of duplicate files can be very useful, especially with large music collections.
Other features to consider include support for automatic import of podcasts, tools to manage volume levels, a means to exclude tracks from playlists, and integration with other audio software that allows you to do sophisticated editing of your music tracks. Many music organizers can also generate reports about your collection and handle scripts that automate management of audio files. The player software may also include an effects generator that produces light show-like displays on your computer or player.