There is a [url=http://www.mediamonkey.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=34699#34699]database switch script[/url] that can select the database to use when starting MediaMonkey.

As far as a readonly database, that's problematic as MediaMonkey writes play data to it when playing songs. You could give others read-only rights to the songs so that they can't modify them. Just run Add/Rescan with [url=http://www.mediamonkey.com/sw/webhelp/noframe/source/library%20configuration.htm]update tags for tracks in library[/url] selected.

I have a file server and 3 laptops (2 children!!)
I add new music to my laptop which is [b]not[/b] normally connected to the server.
Once the music is 'correctly' tagged it is COPIED to the server.
Now I have the music available to my family on the server and new stuff and interesting stuff also on my notebook for playing away from home.
Finally I plug any laptop into the hifi and play music from the server through a wireless connection using playlists.

Trying to keep track of this is difficult.
I really need a readonly db on the server (using URLs) and a local db on my laptop.
Switching between them and manipulating them using a normal File/Open, Save As with last 4 libraries listed would be really helpful.

Obviously it can be simple or with a little effort we could make it really complicated...
We could use multiple DBs searched in specific sequence merging into one library which could handle private ratings on top of a readonly server DB... now that would be really nice :wink:

p.s. I have just started using MM and I am impressed with the speed when it analysed my server and the feature list. It's probably the best on the market so I guess I owe you some money
thanks a lot and keep up the improvements :D

Graham

I did what you are exactly what you are trying to do using two networked pc's what you need is: all of your music in a shared folder, move your .mdb file to a shared folder, modify the.ini file acordingly, and scan your music into your library through the network address.

Search the forum some explained how to do this to me in great detail.

Edit: [url=http://www.mediamonkey.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=5020&highlight=share+library+two+networked+pcs]Here[/url] I searched it for you. Start lower in the thread the first part is bogus.

[quote="pah68"]I might try leaving the database on a usb stick and adjust the ini file to suit.[/quote]

So if you have only one mdb file on the flash drive, but, like in my case, point both .ini files (on notebook + desktop) to the flash drive, then both libraries on both computers will be mirrored? (Of course, both computers should have the same files, too.) That sounds right but I wanted to make sure in case I mess up my stats from either database.

I simply copy my MDB file to which ever PC needs it. Not a very elegant solution mind you. I might try leaving the database on a usb stick and adjust the ini file to suit.

You both right, this is similar issue to Multiple Librarys (or its variation) in MM.

I suggested one of easyest variant. Second one is to dedicate one computer to be a server and point other to use its library file, another is that you copy Library from One every time MM is started, ... there are several solutions for now untill MM Support Multiple Librarys

[quote="mordan"]In the end, you have two music libraries with the exact same content and two instances of MediaMonkey on two different HHD with same MDB files.
[/quote]
That sounds great, as I have the same notebook/desktop problem.

[quote="Peke"]Well There is easy solution to that problem.
1. External HDD With Files
2. Mediamonkey.MDB Copied onto Ext. HDD
3. Make Changes to both Mediamonkey.ini to point to same MDB
4. Connect HDD to computer before you start MM
5. Enjoy.[/quote]

Thanks for the tip

But I hope you realize I need an external HDD for that :)

Imagine this now : Once MediaMonkey is loaded with the normal MDB,

a special command asks you to point to another MediaMonkey.MDB
The command synchronize the two MDB files by
a) merging the two statistics in the MDB files by making a simple addition
b) updating statuses such as rating and tags from a defined master MDB file to a slave MDB file. The master file is chosen by the user

In the end, you have two music libraries with the exact same content and two instances of MediaMonkey on two different HHD with same MDB files.

What do you think?

I don't think it would be hard to implement.

Cheers

Well There is easy solution to that problem.
1. External HDD With Files
2. Mediamonkey.MDB Copied onto Ext. HDD
3. Make Changes to both Mediamonkey.ini to point to same MDB
4. Connect HDD to computer before you start MM
5. Enjoy.

Ok here is the deal

I have two PCs, one notebook from work and one desktop at home...

Now guess my issue?

1)My statistics should be merged together

and most importantly,

2) if I modify a tag on the notebook, MM should be able to synchronize the information with the library on the desktop

So the aim is : manage several totally identical media libraries over a LAN

As an added bonus, you have a back up solution for your music.

Cheers

Mordan