iPod Play iPod via iTunes?

[ericinboston]

Ok...I have to ask this question because it just seems such limited functionality in this day:


My 160gig iPod is synched with my Desktop. I also have a laptop. I travel frequently with both my laptop and iPod.

I want to connect my iPod to my laptop and have iTunes play the music that is stored on the iPod. Sounds like a normal request since I'm not asking to copy/move anything...just play the tunes via my laptop's speakers and bonus points for charging my iPod at the same time.

I can't. iTunes screams that the iPod is synched with another machine and asks me if I want to erase all and synch it with my laptop. Of course the answer is no (and the dialog box isn't even accurate on the choices to make).

So...can I do what I want?

I don't want to drag around dedicated "travel" speakers for my iPod (unless you can convince me...all speaker systems (powered and powerless) I've tried for under $50 completely stink...and I see no reason is spending hundreds of dollars for a mediocre-at-best "travel" speaker system).

I believe I am using iTunes 7.x on all machines...none have 8.x

Thanks in advance.

-Eric

 

[JonHimself]

If you have a line-in jack on your laptop you can always run a 1/8" to 1/8" audio cable from the iPod to the computer. You'd have to control the music with the iPod and you would still be able to charge it via USB but at least the music would come out of the laptop speakers.

 

[ericinboston]

I found the answer after lots of Googling:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1202


The article is 99% accurate...There should be steps after Step 6...basically indicating that you need to click on a Playlist, other pop-up messages etc.

I'm not sure if the setting Manually manage music and videos affects the iPod ***OR*** it affects the individual installation of iTunes. Or both. I guess I will find out when I plug the iPod back into my normal desktop that I have all my music on.

Apple, if you are reading this, please take a few minutes and update this KB article.

-Eric

 

[phairphan]

I do this all of the time and it works splendidly. The manually manage toggle affects the iPod. When you sync your iPod back with your desktop, you will need to uncheck "Manually manage music and videos." Otherwise, your iPod won't sync properly.

 

[ericinboston]

I do this all of the time and it works splendidly. The manually manage toggle affects the iPod. When you sync your iPod back with your desktop, you will need to uncheck "Manually manage music and videos." Otherwise, your iPod won't sync properly.

You beat me to the boards. So it seems iTunes is making this software change on the iPod...which when connected to a pc tells iTunes what to do.

Makes sense...in a way....but a tad annoying. I have a feeling I will connect it to my desktop in a rush thinking it will sync and alas it will not.

But I am happy that I know how to make this work!



-Eric