Since inline remote functionality is not possible with this device, I've ordered an Xduoo X3ii (which also supports Rockbox, and natively has 30000 song limit). I originally ordered through eBay, but my order was cancelled. I ended up ordering on 11.11, but it might take forever to get the device here in Canada thanks to a major backlog due to an ongoing postal strike.
In preparation for this device, I opted to rethink the way I am managing my music.
Details are here:
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/new...duoo-are-on-fire.867522/page-21#post-14564755
Follow up, here:
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/new...duoo-are-on-fire.867522/page-23#post-14619825
In short - instead of exporting some of my iTunes library to be used on a device, I backed up my iTunes library, then ran a script that deleted specifically selected library and folder entries. I now copy my main folder directory onto the microsd. Both iTunes and Rockbox are using the exact same folder architecture, and with the use of some further scripts/programs, I am able to cross pollinate playlists (iTunes playlist works on Rockbox, Rockbox generated playlist works in iTunes).
I rarely use the native T6 firmware (due to 15000 limit), but also found a way to make this work better.
Using batch song duplicate remover software, I was able to create a folder version that was slightly over 15000.
My music folders are sorted through genres, so with the removal of a few genre folders, I was able to make it to just under 15000. I copied this onto my microsd, then booted my T6. I allowed hiby to build a database based on this. Same with rockbox - which I saved as m3u. I then copied the removed genre folders onto the microsd, and updated my database only on rockbox. I saved the results in an m3u. I then copied my full 4-5 star rated library (with all duplicates) onto the microsd, and once again updated the rockbox database, and saved the m3u.
Because of these steps taken, Hiby has a 15000 database that is focused on diversity and not just the first 15000 scanned. I also have 3 m3u's which I can now import into iTunes (if I wanted to fine-tune). In any case - I am now much more happier knowing that any major playlists that I build will be able to be used on both at home and away.