What is Bit Rate in MP3?

I am trying to rip some music into my ipod and I find the standard bit rate I get post-ripping is anything fro 32k to 96k - is it right to assume more (higher) is better? If yes, how can I get the ripping to produce a higher bit rate?

I just DL'd a bit rate converter but before i go wasting my time shooting out random bit rates to find a decent ratio, i was hoping for some input from you guys. any input (thorough, non-silly input that actually tries to answer my question,) would be...

For example.. it was recommened that i save the song settings at 41000 (khz) & 64 (kbps). So that was done. But the sound came out very "cracky". In the mobile phone.. there were some pre-installed mp3 ringtones with details of 128kbps...

MP3s vs WMAs at their highest bit rates, Which format is better taking into consideration both file size and quality?

I have a large library of mp3s and need to figure out a way to stream low quality versions to dial-up web users. I figure there must be a way to change the bit-rate of the high-bit-rate mp3 without actually changing the file or having to make 2 copies...

I need to have some of my mp3 files in smaller sizes. But the only way I know that I can reduce it sizes is by reducing it's bit rate, which results in reduced quality. I want to keep the good quality of a high bit rate, obviously. Is there any other...

I brought lots of music off itunes but the bit rate is terrible...apparently there is a way to pay Itunes 2pence per track for better quality audio files of what I have already brought. does anybody know how this is done?