No, all metadata is read from the files.

First off, if it's taking minutes to load the files, there are either a really large number of files being loaded or it's a really slow external drive or networked drive. If the problem is the number of files a workflow change will help.

Some users load the files they want and hide them which keeps them loaded (until Yate is closed). Still not optimal.

The far better solution is to use Album and Track Databases as part of your workflow. The Album database lets you quickly find a particular album. The track database lets you examine all your metadata of interest, search and filter. You can then load (from the database) those tracks you want to modify. If you wish you can even make the modifications in the database, then batch apply the changes.

My workflow automatically updates my databases whenever I load and change files.

This is the best scenario to work on a large number of files at a time. It's far better than loading all the files. A track database can be though of as the iTunes/Music library ... with far better filtering and modification capability.

If you wish I can document a workflow (based on mine).

I've written a document which should get you started.

You can create a bookmark to the document by doing a Help>Search Yate Help. From the left panel's context menu select Create Resource Bookmarks. The document is named A Database Workflow.

Hopefully this helps.

The track database does not show artwork contained in the files ... It shows folder.jpg files in the same folder as the tracks. Load a track which appears incorrect, save the folder.jpg from the Artwork panel and refresh the artwork thumbnails from the databases context menu.

got it. thank you