After reinstall exe version - consolidation wants to move all files

short back story, I stupidly installed the 'latest' version from the windows store. Couldn't add the exe shortcut to the windows startup cos it is hidden in windows.

Uninstalled windows store version and installed a proper exe from Apple. iunes said it couldn't open because the library is a newer version.

Opened (Shft+click) the "previous" library version from the folder of the same name.

All files appear in library UI and play fine. No missing files.


BUT

I like to let iTunes organise the whole library, and the folder structure of the "iTunes Media" folder is exactly the same, however when I tick the consolidate opion or the "keep itunes media folder organised" it will start to move all the media to a new "music" folder, one level down.


That in itself is not a disaster but I have other music servers that are set up for the itunes media folders as they were. where did I go wrong?


I know this is a basic and old topic, but I don't understand how to remedy.

cheers CD

----------------

old structure that was used by existing servers:

\\\oem1media\itunesCD\itunesmedia\music\a,b,c,d,e,f,g, etc


the structure in the reinstalled itunes advanced tab:

\\\oem1media\itunesCD\itunesmedia



Windows, Windows 10

Posted on Sep 8, 2025 4:36 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Sep 9, 2025 5:02 AM

Inside your media folder is a hidden iTunes Preferences.plist file. With iTunes closed show hidden files in Explorer so your can see it, right-click or drag it into Notepad or NotePad++. Change the integer value from 1 to 0 and save the change. Launch iTunes. Turn Keep organized... off and apply, then turn it back on again. You will no longer get the additional /Music folder inside the media folder.


tt2

4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Sep 9, 2025 5:02 AM in response to doobredubai

Inside your media folder is a hidden iTunes Preferences.plist file. With iTunes closed show hidden files in Explorer so your can see it, right-click or drag it into Notepad or NotePad++. Change the integer value from 1 to 0 and save the change. Launch iTunes. Turn Keep organized... off and apply, then turn it back on again. You will no longer get the additional /Music folder inside the media folder.


tt2

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After reinstall exe version - consolidation wants to move all files

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