Change mp3 icons in folder to jpg image

wizard-fred May 13, 2011 at 14:03:37

I think what you want to click on an image and have the picture appear and the sound play.

Derek May 13, 2011 at 16:42:35

Not so sure you can do that without globally changing all mp3 icons. However, you could put the mp3's into a sub folder then make shortcuts to each one. It is possible to change individual shortcut icons to anything you wish. I've never done this in Vista but you will probably have to use reduced copies of the pictures (stored somewhere else) then use a program to convert them to .ico files. There are sure to be free icon making programs which do this if you Google around.

Thanks. I already figured that out though. I just thought there had to be a way to change the original mp3 icon in it's folder without having to create a shortcut first. Would be interested to know why it is that I can't change the original but can change the shortcut.

Derek May 13, 2011 at 18:51:42

An "Mp3" is associated with a specific program. If you use a different audio player it can be changed to that icon instead (or any other if you try hard) but it is still global. I guess it does have some advantage in that the icon gives an immediate indication of its function. A shortcut is actually an "Lnk" link file (with a hidden file extension) and not related to any specific program. It can therefore be given any icon you wish. I accept that the situation is not totally clear cut, so perhaps another way of putting it is that MS designed it that way LOL.... Please come back and let us know the outcome.

b---tards(microsoft). I did try hard. But, when you start talking global, I fear that means getting into the registry or other places that novices like myself should probably not play in. Oh well, guess creating a shortcut folder isn't to bad. A little time consuming converting jpg to ico, creating a shortcut of the mp3 files, and customizing icons that way is all.

Derek May 13, 2011 at 19:13:00

Yes, it is a bit tiresome. Even in the registry I think it would be very hard to sort this one because it is a total concept and would therefore require a complete rewrite of the rules. Please come back and let us know the outcome.