[PrimusZa1]

Hey, thanks for trying out my settings. You are right, there has to be some more testing to find the optimal max. bitrate. The problem is, that we have to try out each resolution seperatly as the relation between resolution and max. supported bitrate seems not to be linear but logarithmic (so we can not easily calculate the max. bitrate for resolution X if we already know the max. bitrate for resolution Y). I have just updated my bitrate values for 1280x720 and 1280x688 though. And i think they are fine now (i would like test them with your sample clip though).
This clip you linked to, is that the original source or already the divx encoded clip?

Are you sure that you have your audio decoded by an external decoder and not the xbox when having those frame-drops?

Downsizing 1280x720 to 960x544 is always an option. I think when taking into account the much higher possible bitrates and the good job the xbox does when upscaling its recomended at least for complex movies (action, etc...). And even when downsizing i think DiVX is superior to XViD because you cannot reach the same high bitrates with the later.

Thanks for your feedback!

The test clip is a direct clip (non renecoded) from the source H264 MKV with 5.1 so it makes a good test subject so far. I also pass thru to an external audio decoder for the audio. I did a complete encode of the Full movie downsizing it to 960 X 544 using your 960 cli and so far it looks great compared to the Xvid copy I just did before you posted about the Xvid problems with CBR. I will be doing a complete play thru to see if I drop frames though I think from what I saw it should be ok. (max cpu with test clip was 97%) I will do a run through with your 1280 CLI and let you know how it goes on the other 1280 16/9 videos I have. Hopefully we are getting close to the "sweet spot" Keep up the great work!