We present a generalization of density-functional based linear-response cal
culations of lattice dynamical properties to the case of general energy-ind
ependent basis sets. The formalism accounts for the nonorthogonality and at
om-position dependence of the basis functions, and is suited for the applic
ation of norm-conserving pseudopotentials. We have implemented this scheme
in the framework of a mixed-basis pseudopotential technique, which allows a
n efficient treatment of localized electrons. The accuracy of the present s
cheme is demonstrated by calculations of the phonon dispersions of the 4d m
etals Y and Ag [S0163-1829(99)50930-2].