Have just found out there are a number of settings in the preferences option in iTunes for different quality of downloads

Any idea which is the best one for downloading CD's? I'm not too fussed about file size. AAC Encoder seems to be the default

thanks

For me it's Apple Lossless if you're an "audiophile" or going to be listening to them on a decent home stereo setup, 128kbps AAC for the iPod/car. If you want to check for yourself if you can hear the difference, rip a few tracks at different settings, google ABX comparison software, download some and see if you can tell them apart…

Apple's Aac encoder is very good if you get it to use vbr mode. Turn off high efficiency and set the bit rate to about 160.

Its transparent for most people from about 128 upwards so 160 should be a safe bet. Most devices should play aac too.

MP3, then you can play it on any music player other than just apple. 192kbps should do it