MAME: how to avoid all the numerous playlist generated? Should I upgrade to a merged or non-merged version?

[Cristagally]

Hello everyone, I'm a bit lost. I have MAME 0.78 full set, and when I import it, I have so many playlist created each time... like... 60, or even more! I would like to download a more recent MAME version, but:

1.I would like to be able to keep "only" the roms I love to play.
2.I don't want -if possible-  any playlist. 
3.I don't know if I should get a merged or non merged MAME version.

Thanks guys!

[neil9000]

1. Then you will HAVE to have a Non-Merged set, you cannot delete any files from the other sets.

2. Playlists are only a option when using the fullset importer, and they are a option, you could of turned off there creation anytime you used the fulset importer. Also though if you are pulling out only games you play, then you should NEVER be using the fullset importer, it's not a fullset.

3.Has to be Non-Merged if you want to delete files.

[Cristagally]

First of all, thanks fro answering so quiclky. 

1.So, basically, I can keep my MAME 0.78 set? I've created 2 folders: the one with the full set, and another one made by me with only the game I used to play. Is it correct?

2. didn't see this. I will have a look. Thanks for the hint.

3.I guess my MAME 0.78 is a non merged by default?

[neil9000]

1. you can use any set you like, as long as you use the 0.78 version of the emulator also. Personally i would never use a set that old, and just get a current set as the MAME emulation has come a long way in the 20 years since your set was released.

2. Its on the same page of the fulset wizard as the filter options, but again if you have a handpicked set you should never be using that importer or seeing that screen, so you were doing it wrong to start with.

3. I have no idea what romset you have, it could be any set, so pulling out roms could break everything.