Vector, Bitmaps and Transparency

Hey everyone,
I’m running into some performance issues with my flash application. While it works and everything, it’s often sluggish. While doing some research, I found that Bitmaps are often faster than Vectors.

My graphics are drawn in flash, and use gradient fills, with varying alpha values, so it’s more transparent on one side, than it is on the other. I’m sure this is very intensive and so, my questions are:

  • Are transparent PNGs, just as intensive as transparent Vectors?
  • What image practises should I encorperate to ensure a good steady frame rate?

Thanks for any help you can offer,

  • CrimsonHEART