Resizing in GIMP 2.x

[Z-Bot]

I have a question. What is the best way to downscale an image in GIMP? (i.e. so it will fit in a sig/avatar restricted dimensions)

It seems that only using the scale tool distorts the image more than it should. (i.e. even thumbnails of the original resolution image looks clearer than the post-scaled image)

Is it something I'm doing wrong?
Is it a limitation of GIMP?

Also, don't know if it helps, but it doesn't seem to matter how big the original pic was either, if the image is scaled to 75% or less, it always seems blurred. Is Photoshop really that much better? I see lots of sigs with very clear, sharp colors/lines/details/etc, yet GIMP seems like it can't compete (unless me being a n00b in GIMP is making me miss certain steps/tools/etc that would help me out)

I'm at a loss here.

Any help is appreciated.

[kureshii]

Use Cubic/Sinc scaling interpolation instead of Linear. If you're doing heavy downscaling (i.e. >4X), try applying a light Gaussian blur prior to scaling.

[Z-Bot]

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

Applying that blur beforehand definately helped the finished sized pic look much better.

Thank you