I've been convinced to change our alternative video format from Real to Quicktime... although I do prefer the look and file size of Real Media over Quicktime.

So what are good encoding setting to use in Vegas?

Which codec is the most popular... Sorenson 3, H.263, etc.?

What quality setting should I use?

What streaming settings should I use?

What the heck is 'compressed depth' and why do I only have a 24bit option on my desktop and a 32bit option on my laptop?

Is there any other tricks or tips I should know about?