File size issues

I started a new thread (semi) related to my last one.

I am tring to make a small flash banner that contains an image imported from photoshop.

Some folks recommended keeping it to 20k or less for a banner.

I’m already at 25k with just the image and a background. I still have to add text and animations etc… The image is already optimized (to 40k) and looking quite crappy I might add.

How is it that every time I go to myspace I always see huge flash banners with a photo of some girl in a bikini or something. The images look crystal clear and display at like 500x500px (or larger).

Am I missing something?