It has been quite a while since my last post. Currently I am writing a novel and soaking in all the music I can listen to through the relatively new service Apple Music. I do not consider myself a huge fan of Apple in general due to various reasons, but I will say that their new music streaming service is exceptional. I have had the iPod touch 6th generation for almost a year now and have finally accepted the invitation for a 3-month trial.
Firstly I want to point out that Apple is still the best in terms of dedicated music players for those who do not want to shell out hundreds of dollars on alternatives like Fiio or Astell & Kern. I have encountered some trouble with the software because my albums are all custom tagged because Apple does not know how to tag soundtracks albums (in my opinion) and a good amount of my music is not even in their store. I still am happy with my purchase though. Microsoft Groove and Google Play Music are still excellent app alternatives since those services are more forgiving with customized music.
Now, Apple Music is a good service that I have been enjoying for the past month or so. My subscription expires on the 9th of December, but I am already convinced to continue with the $9.99 per month. It was an excellent marketing technique to give the user 3 months, that way they can't imagine their life without it. Now, this may not be so appealing to those who are deeply invested in complete scores since they are not sold anywhere, but there is an excellent selection of scores. New scores are usually available, and though some albums are available for purchase only, the majority of what was available from each artist on iTunes was open for streaming.
I am definitely open to paying for the plan, but I will cancel it at the end of my trial because it is not the best time for me to spend money like that. If you are interested in trying this out, I must warn you to not accept the use of iCloud Music Library if you intend on not using the music in your own library unless your entire library can be found in the iTunes library. iTunes has a tendency to mess things up a bit. I am currently not using iTunes to manage any of my library right now.
If you are interested or have already reached the end of your trial and would like to continue with the plan, I must advise you to go out and purchase one of the gift cards from Best Buy or wherever you can find them. They are $99 for an entire year, which means you save $20 instead of paying $9.99 a month through iTunes.
Lastly, I have a complimentary link coming soon. I am in an Alexandre Desplat mood right now, and two of my favorite scores that he composed will be available for one week total. Keep a look out!
