I made this post in the Mac Forum, but I think the answers would be similar, regardless of the OS...

I'm trying to get an idea of the sound quality and range of bit rates for the compressed files that contain the RealTracks on non-"Audiophile" editions.

So far, the sentiment seems to be along the lines of, "If you're not doing professional recording, the compressed files should be fine".

I guess I'm the type who doesn't like listening to mp3 files at 128 kbps because they sound "thin" or "brittle", or whatever term you like to use for the sound of a compressed audio track. So, I don't plan on doing professional recording, but I don't want to be irritated by the quality of the tracks, either.

It really doesn't sound like a complain anyone's making on the forum, but I'm just trying to get a better picture of range of bit rates in the various files. My guess is that the RealDrums tracks are recorded in stereo, and perhaps piano, but most other instruments are recorded in mono.

Can anyone take a look at the Realtracks in their folders and kind of scan through the bit rates and make a little report on the forums, as well as any sound quality comments?

Thanks - I'm anxious to put this compulsive indecision of mine to rest and buy a version soon.