iPod iTunes Match

[Smellmet]

I'm considering getting iTunes Match, could any other users of this answer a few questions?

Once you've paid for it do you get to replace your entire library with higher quality 256 AACs? (assuming they area on Apple's servers.

If you only pay for one year - do you get to keep these files or do they get deleted from your library?

Can it screw up your entire library - is it advisable to get a backup done first?

Is it straightforward to do?

Reason I'm asking is I've basically not used my iPod for months now as the sound quality in my car just doesn't cut the mustard since I bought a Kia Optima with the 12 speaker Infinity system, yet when I listen to Google Play music with my same library uploaded it sounds awesome, but I'd like to use the iPod again as the car gives me full integration with the iPod and playlists, which I miss.

 

[Juicy Box]

I have used iTunes Match since the day it launched.

Once you've paid for it do you get to replace your entire library with higher quality 256 AACs? (assuming they area on Apple's servers.

Yes, but it does not automatically replace anything. If you remove the music (without deleting from iCloud), and re-download everything, then it replaces anything that is available on their servers.

I am not sure if lower bitrate songs are replaced automatically, I can't remember.

If you only pay for one year - do you get to keep these files or do they get deleted from your library?

Yes, they are yours, and you can keep them no matter how your obtained the music.

Can it screw up your entire library

YES! It used to run perfect for me, but after Appel Music came out, there was plenty of reports of people's libraries getting replaced with Apple Music files.

is it advisable to get a backup done first?

Yes, and keep this back up. Around the time that Apple Music came out, my entire iTunes Match library disappeared. I didn't sign up for iTunes Music either.

My support ticket was elevated to an Apple Engineer, who basically said that I never had any music uploaded, which was clearly wrong.

Luckily, I had over 90% of my music backed up.

Is it straightforward to do?

It used to be easier, but it still is not hard. I think it requires an iCloud account now, with settings enabling storing music on your iCloud.[/QUOTE]