Tweak hidden iTunes settings
Recent versions of iTunes have included a couple of hateful additions that can't be annihilated via standard preferences...
NO STORE: Scrap iTunes Store links and the Genre column by activating a couple of hidden settings
08. Remove the Genre column
defaults write com.apple.iTunes show-genre-when-browsing -boolean false
Unless you've a well-catalogued collection, the 'Genre' column during browsing is largely useless. Get rid of it by using the above command.
You can also boost iTunes functionality using the following two rules:
09. Load previews before playing
defaults write com.apple.iTunes load-complete-preview-before-playing -boolean true
This is handy when the iTunes Store's being slow - entire previews are downloaded prior to them playing.
10. Add half-star ratings
defaults write com.apple.iTunes allow-half-stars -boolean true
If full stars aren't enough, this command enables you to set half-star ratings by clicking between star positions (or click-dragging) in an iTunes list view.