Another user posted issues with Linux and VLC 2.2.0 and M4A files downloade with SMPlayer/SMTube. Similar issues playing such files on Windows 7 Home Premium (64 bit). Using 32 bit VLC 2.2.0 and 32 bit SMPLayer. Under VLC 2.2.0, M4A files cannot be fast-forward but seem to play if no attempt to skip forward is made. The time duration is also incorrect for M4A files. If M4A files converted to MP3 (using SuperC), MP3 files play OK.
I uninstalled VLC 2.2.0 after trying to downgrade to VLC 2.1.4. After complete Windows program uninstall process (VLC doesn't provide an Uninstall option), installation of VLC 2.1.4 worked and plays same M4A files without any problems.
I only used VLC 2.2.0 briefly - other than M4A issues, seems OK.
Thanks
Roy Brickley