Library database with no media
I reverted the OS from Yosemite to Mavericks so my internal HD was erased (have subsequently returned to Yosemite, that’s another story!). My iTunes Media Folder is now empty. My content still lists in iTunes but none of the media files remain.
Can someone help me with the correct terminology:
My items are still "in iTunes" (still in the iTunes Library database), right?
The media is "missing"?
To rebuild, I have 2 separate tasks: re-rip CDs I possess and restore Store purchases I have made.
My questions:
To avoid duplication of items as I re-rip, it seems wise to delete original items from iTunes. I don’t anticipate deleting the iTunes Library file because I would like to preserve playlists and other metadata. Would a re-ripped song re-appear in the playlist its predecessor was in?
How is a "missing" purchased item affected if I delete it or keep it in iTunes? Will redownloading from the Store be easier if it is still "in iTunes"? Will redownloading previous purchases still be possible if I delete purchased items from the iTunes Library? I have attempted a few redownloads but the download cloud icon is fussy, doesn’t appear without several clicks. Would it work more smoothly if I deleted purchased items from the Library (my assumption is that they persist in my Store account even if deleted from iTunes)?
iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G, iOS 6.0.1, Screens VPN app