Sonic Solutions released a new version of its high-end Blu-ray Disc production toolset, the Scenarist BD Workgroup, featuring options for encoding, authoring, debugging, and formatting premium entertainment for commercial release on Blu-ray 3D.

Based on its 3DAccess initiative and feedback from a collective of Sonic's professional users who elected to work closely with Sonic to solve the complex 3D production workflow issues, Sonic's new Scenarist-based Blu-ray 3D workgroup offers a host of new capabilities, including:

Sonic Scenarist BD 5.5 – comprehensive support for Blu-ray 3D Profile 5 authoring. Includes support for 3D MVC video streams, 3D pop-up menu graphics, 3D subtitles, and 3D Java content.

Sonic CineVision 3.5 – extensive Multi-view Video Coding (MVC) codec support with deep, segment-based parameter controls to deliver mastering quality 3D video streams. CineVision 3.5 also features a new, more efficient timeline that maintains its industry-defining segment controls while adding new instant preview capabilities for completed 3D encodes.

Scenarist QC 1.5 – provides real-time Blu-ray 3D emulation and title debugging for Blu-ray 3D authors and QC specialists.

Starting 16 September 2010, all Blu-ray 3D production capabilities are available as plug-in options for existing CineVision and Scenarist systems, eliminating the need for a completely new production system and lowering the investment required by authoring facilities.

"The 3DAccess program has achieved our goal of industry-wide collaboration and ensured our customers have the creative tools they need to meet the requirements of high-end content developers and major motion picture companies," said Rolf Hartley, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Sonic Solutions. "Blu-ray 3D represents a new business opportunity for our customers and their clients."

Story filed 14.09.10