Sonic Debuts Next-Generation Encoder for HD-DVD and Blu-ray Disc Titles; New Sonic HD-series Encoder Supports VC-1 Encoding and Introduces StreamData Technology for Enhanced Workgroup Integration

Sonic Solutions(R) (Nasdaq:SNIC), the leader in digitalmedia software, today unveiled the next generation of its SonicHD-series Encoder, which now supports VC-1 encoding and includes newStreamData(TM) technology that enables the exchange of key encodingmetadata for unsurpassed integration with Sonic HD authoringapplications. Part of a suite of HD title preparation tools for newhigh-definition optical disc formats, the HD-series Encoder works withScenarist(R) HD and Blu-ray Creator(TM) to provide professionalauthoring facilities with highly-integrated encoding of superiorquality VC-1 and H.264/AVC streams for incorporation into titles inthe HD DVD or Blu-ray Disc (BD) formats.

The Sonic HD-series Encoder takes full advantage of the VC-1codec, based on Windows Media Video 9, to deliver great-lookinghigh-definition video streams with efficient compression for playbackon today's personal computers and next-generation set-top players.Also new for the HD-series Encoder is Sonic's exclusive StreamDatatechnology, which provides unparalleled workgroup integration via aunique link between the video compression engine and Sonic's HDauthoring systems. StreamData enables the exchange of encodingparameters, chapter-point names and placement information, controlsfor setting custom GOP structures, and reference frame data.Additional HD-series Encoder features include support for a wide rangeof input formats, customized batch-encoding modes, detailed parametercontrols, and extensive stream analysis for both HD DVD and BDlegalization. The result is an encoder that delivers unmatched qualityand maximum efficiency and compatibility across the encoding/authoringworkflow.

"The first wave of high-def DVD titles will deliver amazing videoquality, but they will also require both compliance and compatibilityacross several new platforms," said Steve Allen, digital mediafacility manager at Egmont Nordisk Film, a leading electronic mediaproduction and distribution group based in Valby, Denmark. "That's achallenging requirement, but Sonic has been involved with theDVD-Video format since the beginning, playing a crucial role in thedevelopment of title creation tools and delivering industry-leadingencoding and authoring solutions. No other company can draw on thatdepth of experience, which is why we view Sonic as an invaluableresource for tools and information as we prepare for the creation oftitles in HD formats."

The HD-series Encoder is one of several HD development componentsthat Sonic is delivering in pre-release versions to members of theHigh Definition Authoring Alliance (HDAA), the first and onlyworldwide association dedicated to preparing top authoring facilitiesfor the launch of HD disc formats. With its newly enhancedcapabilities, the HD-series encoder will allow HDAA members to encodemaster-quality video that integrates seamlessly with Sonic's HDauthoring tools.

Sonic HD-series Encoder features include:

-- Bit rate-controlled CBR/VBR and quantization-controlled VBR encoding modes.

-- Complete access to the advanced encoding parameters of the VC-1 codec.

-- Extensive stream legalization analysis to assure HD DVD- and Blu-ray-compliant encoding.

-- Support for a wide range of uncompressed and compressed source material, including Avid's DNxHD format, AVI, QuickTime, MPEG, and WMV, as well as image sequence files.

-- StreamData technology for maximum encode-to-authoring efficiency and revisioning.

-- Unique batch mode segment-re-encoding for fine-tuning bit rates and image quality.

-- Telecine frame rate conversion.

"Whether they're working with VC-1 or H.264/AVC, encodingprofessionals need full access to the advanced encoding parameters ofthe codec to achieve the pristine image quality required forhigh-definition titles," said Sam Orton-Jay, HD-series product managerfor Sonic's Professional Products Group. "Sonic's HD-series Encodernot only offers discrete control over encoding parameters, but alsoensures that the resulting streams are compliant with the HD DVD andBlu-ray formats."

Sonic is demonstrating the HD-series Encoder at IBC booth(#7.731).

About Sonic Solutions

Sonic Solutions (Nasdaq:SNIC; http://www.sonic.com) is the leaderin digital media software, providing a broad range of interoperable,platform independent software tools and applications for creativeprofessionals, business and home users, and technology partners.Sonic's products range from advanced DVD authoring systems andinteractive content delivery technologies used to produce the majorityof Hollywood DVD film releases, to the award-winning Roxio(R)- andSonic-branded CD and DVD creation, playback and backup solutions thathave become the premier choice for consumers, prosumers and businessusers worldwide.

Sonic products are globally available from major retailers, onlineat Sonic.com and Roxio.com, and are bundled with PCs, after-marketdrives and consumer electronic devices. Sonic's digital media creationengine is the de facto standard and has been licensed by majorsoftware and hardware manufacturers, including Adobe, Microsoft,Scientific-Atlanta, Sony, and many others. Sonic Solutions isheadquartered in Marin County, California.

Sonic, the Sonic logo, Sonic Solutions, Roxio, Blu-ray Creator,and StreamData are trademarks or registered trademarks of SonicSolutions or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or othercountries. All other company or product names are trademarks of theirrespective owners and, in some cases, are used by Sonic Solutionsunder license.

Forward Looking Statements

The above paragraphs of this press release may contain forwardlooking statements that are based upon current expectations. Actualresults could differ materially from those projected in the forwardlooking statements as a result of various risks and uncertaintiesincluding, among others, the timely introduction and acceptance of newproducts, costs associated with new product introductions, thetransition of products to new hardware configurations and platformsand other factors, including those discussed in the Company's annualand quarterly reports on file with the Securities and ExchangeCommission. This press release should be read in conjunction with theCompany's most recent annual report on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q andRegistration Statement on file with the Securities and ExchangeCommission, which contain a more detailed discussion of the Company'sbusiness including risks and uncertainties that may affect futureresults. The Company does not undertake to update any forward lookingstatements.