WAV files actually do not support metadata. The data that is associated with them in iTunes is a direct function of the iTunes software, as I understand it. So if you copy via drag-and-drop all the associated data will be lost. This is a huge disadvantage to ripping in WAV. The only way I know of to avoid it is to have iTunes move the files from within the program. You can use the "Consolidate Library" command to do this. Go to the Advanced menu and change the location of your library to the target drive. Once the target drive has been set choose "Consolidate Library" command (File>Library>Consolidate Library). This will move a copy of your entire library to the new iTunes music folder that you've chosen as the target, while leaving the original copy in tact. I'm pretty sure that's the only way to do it, but anyone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong. You can avoid this problem in the future by ripping to Apple Lossless or AIFF, both of which actually do support metadata as I understand it.
WAV file
I am using WAV to rip my CDs with error correction. I periodically convert all WAV files to Apple Lossless so that they are smaller on my Ipod. I use WAV in order to have bit perfect copies, and in case I ever want to use playback software other than Itunes. I have several hundred CDs stored in both WAV and Apple Lossless on an external hard drive. Question: when I copied the hard drive to a second hard drive by dragging and dropping in XP (via right click Explore), most of my WAV files lost artist and album names. How can I back up and keep these "metadata?"
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