Effective compression for small files

[Raga]

I'll be making a series of clips available in a number of formats. VCD and DVD compliant MPEG-files are already being processed as I type, however I'd also like to make a "small download" file.

What do you recommend for the codec if I wanted to make, say, 256kbps / 64kbps version? MPEG4 / XviD or MPEG1? 160x120, 240x180?

[guns1inger]

Personally, anything under VCD resolution I wouldn't bother watching. They are simply too small on high res monitors. Who is your audience ? How long are the files ?

[Raga]

This is intended for (1) people on dialup, and (2) those who want quick previews. I'm aware the experience isn't super, that's why VCD and DVD will also be available. However 256/64kbps is pretty much what I'm going with for the small version, and I'm looking for the best solution for producing just that. The file lengths will vary anywhere from five to fifty minutes, not that it should make any difference with this.

[bugster]

256kbps / 64kbps version? MPEG4 / XviD 160x120

Sounds OK to me!

[BJ_M]

if you make it xvid or mpeg4 ... people most likely will have to download a codec and install it - which is something most people will not do ..

[Raga]

Right. I remember having issues with people not being able to install codecs before. So I should then probably just go with MPEG1...

However what's with Archive.Org and their MPEG4 that only works with Quicktime? (See this post.) Any clues as to what's behind the rationale?

[bugster]

if you make it xvid or mpeg4 ... people most likely will have to download a codec and install it - which is something most people will not do ..

Thats a good point. WMV would be a good alternative.