Sony launches Vegas Pro 10 video editing software, supports 3D, OFX plug-ins

The latest version of Sony's desktop video editing and production software, Vegas Pro 10, launched in retail on Monday, the company announced.

Sony's Vegas Pro is a full-featured video production suite comparable to Avid Composer, Adobe Premiere, and Apple's Final Cut. While it may not have quite the level of prestige among professionals that its competitors have, Vegas retains a strong presence among the consumer/prosumer segment thanks to the widespread retail availability of the lower-tier Vegas Studio software.

A primary addition to Vegas Pro 10 is native support for 3D content. Now users can import, edit, preview, adjust, and export 3D projects without the need for any additional plug-ins. 3D outputs supported include: separate left and right, top and bottom (half/full,) side by side (half/full,) Line Alternating, Anaglyphic, Checkerboard, Blend, and Difference.

But speaking of plug-ins, the software has expanded its plug-in architecture to include plug-ins built on the Open Effects Association (OFX) standard. This is a significant addition because more than a dozen visual effects development companies use this standard to make their plug-ins, and support for the standard will beef up Vegas Pro's list of compatible plug-ins.

Vegas Pro 10 also includes improved closed-captioning, new stabilization tools, expanded multicam functionality, performance optimizations for DSLR video, and improved audio production capabilities.

Monday marks the worldwide retail launch of Vegas Pro 10, and it can also be purchased at sonycreativesoftware.com for $699.95. Upgrades from previous versions of Vegas Pro cost $249.95.