Sonic Introduces Mastering-Quality H.264 / AVC High Definition Encoding For Next Generation Disc Formats

Sonic HD-Series AVC Encoder To Enable Hollywoodís First HD Title Releases

26-Apr-05

Sonic Solutions introduced its HD-Series AVC encoder, a mastering-quality encoding system specifically designed to meet the stringent image-quality demands of major motion picture studios and high-end authoring facilities. Combined with Scenarist? HD and Blu-ray Creatorô, Sonicís new HD authoring solutions, the HD-Series AVC encoder provides title creators with a complete workstation solution for developing discs in the new HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc formats, which are scheduled for launch in 2005 and 2006.Sonicís HD-Series AVC encoder makes use of the high profile features offered in the AVC specification, also called H.264 or MPEG 4-Part 10, and has been optimized to provide mastering-level image quality at low bit-rates while maintaining the HD performance that studios demand. It also features Sonicís unique segment-based re-encoding, which allows compressionists to efficiently optimize image quality on a frame-by-frame basis. The encoding process may be customized via detailed parameter access, and is tightly integrated with Sonicís title development workflow, which can accommodate both HD-DVD and Blu-ray Disc formats.ìHigh-definition video encoding presents significant challenges, not only for balancing image quality with stream efficiency, but also for managing the inevitable issues that arise between various platforms in the early days of a format launch,î said Morgan Holly, managing director at Blink Digital, an Ascent Media Group company and leading DVD authoring facility in Santa Monica, California. ìSonicís tools have long provided seamless workflow integration between encoding and authoring, and their professional encoders provide the exceptional quality our industry needs while significantly reducing the problems typically associated with third-party component compatibility. That is especially important for us as we launch our HD title authoring and encoding business.îThe HD-series AVC encoder is the latest development in Sonicís long history of leadership in meeting the title development needs of studios and independent facilities. Sonicís professional line of authoring and encoding products deliver master-quality video coupled with the maximum workflow efficiency required for success in the fast-paced professional authoring industry.Sonic is demonstrating its HD-Series AVC encoder at NAB booth (#SL308) and plans to release the product in the summer of 2005.