HD to MPEG4 settings

Hi All

Im having problems converting a project from a sequence set as 'XDCAM HD 1080p25 VBR' into a basic MPEG4 file. Im having no joy through compressor and when I try it through FCP using a H.264 or MPEG4 codec it is either coming out at a huge frame size, or, if I set it to QVGA 320 by 240 (letter boxed) it just converts it to 4:3.

Any help or advice on this subject would be hugely appreciated

Cheers
Chris

When I need to make a file like an MP4 from a 16:9 timeline I perform the following ritual. I duplicate the sequence just to be safe. Then I nest it down to 1 video track. Then in the motion tab I change the distortion to -33%, which will create a letterbox in a 4:3 movie. I export via quicktime conversion, not compressor. Works for me and places like youtube, where they can't handle 16:9 yet (or is it livevideo- I forget just now). You can also change the size to a 16:9 ratio using quicktime conversion>quicktime movie>H.264. I am on an Avid job right now (don't tell anyone) so I can't look up the exact settings at the moment.

Mikey