What compression format is recommended for export of a 30-sec. HD clip that is to be uploaded to the Web? I've tried several (resulting in file sizes ranging from 311-480 mb) and all have yielded poor playback quality. Also, I can't get any of the clips, which I've saved to a desktop folder, to appear in the correct 16x9 aspect ratio, even when I play them it back through my Quicktime Player.

is it for you tube?

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/dvd-web-video-delivery/83199-youtube-best-compression-tips.html

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/dvd-web-video-delivery/95625-my-hdv-ecode-you-tube-look-terrible.html

Encoding for YouTube Using Compressor (http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/youtube_compressor_gary.html)

YouTube Encoding: Locked & Reloaded (http://www.kenstone.net/fcp_homepage/you_tube_redux_gary.html)

Export using QT Compression, select Broadband High (or Medium), go to options and select H.264, and Custom size, and enter 480x270. This should give you a small file size of good quality.