Someone told me to check copy files to iTunes media folder when adding to library. Does that mean I have two copies of all my music files?

If you have this checked then your files are added to the iTunes Music folder in the iTunes folder in the Music folder. This copy is then in addition to the original, which you can delete or keep as suits you.

If you don't check this facility iTunes does not copy the file, but simply notes a reference to where it is. That of course means that if you move it iTunes will lose contact with it.

Most people find it's better to let iTunes make its own copy which will then always be in its own library folder, but it's entirely your choice which is more convenient to you.

Good question. I think if you check that box, iTunes will not need to locate the file to play it. I made a mistake and imported my entire library with that box unchecked and now every time I try to play a track in iTunes library, it gives an error message because my library is stored in an external hard drive, and that's where I imported my tracks from. Since the external drive is not always connected to my PC, iTunes will not play them. In other words, it will play them only when the external hard drive is connected because iTunes is configured to play them from their source.

What I am not clear about is that if you check that box, does iTunes move the tracks to "media folder" on my computer or does it store them in some sort of cloud drive "media folder". I would like to get an answer on that. I wouldn't want them copied to my hard drive because that would take up too much space (which is why I store them on external hard drive). It would be great if iTunes stores them in a cloud drive (like Amazon Music Library). If not, I guess I will continue to connect my external drive to my PC every time I want to play the tracks in iTunes.

Hi,

You could subscribe to iTunes Match Subscribe to iTunes Match - Apple Support

Make sure that your external drive is attached and let iTunes Match scan the library to determine what can be matched or needs to be uploaded. Once the scan has been completed close iTunes then open a new library on your computer.

Open a different iTunes Library file or create a new one - Apple Support

SIgn into iTunes, go to preferences and check iCloud music library.

You will now see all the music that is in the cloud - you will be able to stream your music. When you want to add new music, connect external drive and open iTunes library.

Jim