MC can automatically link external cover art if the image file's name and path match with the set cover art location option. The available options in "Tools > Options > File Location > Cover Art" are as follows:
1) In a specified folder
- in a single dedicated cover art folder (you can set the folder if you don't want to use the default location)
- the filename must match the
Album Artist (auto) - Album rule, for example:
The Beatles - Abbey Road.jpg or
(Multiple Artists) - Moulin Rouge (Music From Baz Luhrmann's Film).jpg2) In the same folder as the file (as Folder.jpg)
- in the music file's folder
- the filename must be
Folder.jpg3) In the same folder as the file
- in the music file's folder
- the filename must match the
Album Artist (auto) - Album rule, for example:
The Beatles - Abbey Road.jpg or
(Multiple Artists) - Moulin Rouge (Music From Baz Luhrmann's Film).jpgIf the filenames and locations are correct you can use the "Tools > Cover Art > Quick Find In File / Cover Art Directory" menu command for linking the image files if they are not already linked for some reason.
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Alternatively you can link any image file by using the "Tools > Cover Art > Add From File..." command. In this case the filename does not matter - for example, Oxygene-1977.jpg will work.
You can also drag and drop any image file from Windows Explorer to the expanded cover art display in Action Window when one or more audio files are selected. More info about this method:
http://yabb.jriver.com/interact/index.php?topic=59513.msg415474#msg415474-------------
A third option would be to use the excellent "Tools > Cover Art > Get From Internet..." tool.
EDITThe above information is correct is for ripped and other music files, not for physical Audio CD discs.
Since you are specifically asking about physical CDs you can use only a separate cover art folder i.e. the naming/location option 1) or link the images by hand. You can link the CD cover art and after that change the cover art location option for music files if you prefer to do that. MC will remember the CD cover art links as long as you use the same database.