Phase formation characteristics of perovskite powders in the (1-x)Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3-xBaTiO3, (1-x)PZT-xBT system prepared by a modified mixed-oxide synthetic route have been investigated by varying the chemical compositions and calcination temperatures. Lattice parameter changes were examined as a function of composition. It was seen that complete solid solutions of perovskite-like phase in the (1-x)PZT-xBT system was obtained. With increasing BT content, the cell parameters and the degree of tetragonality decreased, while optimum firing temperatures increased continuously. (C) 2003 Published by Elsevier B.V.