[revolver9]

I have some mp3s from years back that I encoded with iTunes that I have now encoded with LAME and they sound better as there is more space in the music. It really does make a very worthy difference. I don't think it takes a spectacular system to hear the difference, but still some decent equipment (and affordable). The evidence is in the volume. Most people would draw a conclusion from sitting at their comp or driving down the road with surrounding noise. Who likes to turn up Moaner or Banstyle at home? At 256 and above or with a good VBR the music will attain that crystal clarity. I think it's also dependent on your hearing and although mine is not the best I am still lucky to have great hearing (puzzling as I think back to shows and events)

Also I still think the VBR analysis through iTunes is flawed. LAME VBR is amazing though. And constant bit rate of 256 and above I don't think iTunes and LAME are noticeably different.