Nowdays most stuff is ripped at at least 192 kbps so that's what I'll aim for, however older stuff is often lower. I prefer at least 160 and will usually only go for 128 if there's no alternative (the compressing can get rather noticeable).

Above 192 is nice when I can get it. However, it's good to remember that bitrate isn't the only thing that determines the quality of an MP3; a 192 kbps file ripped and encoded superbly can sound better than a poorly ripped/encoded 320 kbps file.

optimally you should try for LAME APS files (-alt preset standard) which are VBR averaging around 192... realistically though a CBR 192 mp3 for trance is just fine, the sounds tend to be not as dynamic as say 2 heavy metal guitars so their is minimal [audible] loss in compression. Honestly your sound card probably degrades the signal more than the mp3 itself does. geocities doesn't support offsite referalls unless your paying for it...

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