MAX Power! (3D Studio MAX R3)

Member Name: martial_loh

Product:	3D Studio MAX R3
Date:	11/07/01 (372 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: options

Disadvantages: little things - booleaning not as perfect as it could be!

I started using 3D Studio MAX when version 2.5 came out. Back then as a new user I was extremely confused by the depth and detail that MAX had to offer me. It wasnt until I read a few help-books that I understood the basics of MAX.... and I am still learning the program now!!
MAX 3 brought a new look to the series of programs. There is now a new toolbar at the top of the screen with many tabs which can be used to access nearly all the modelling modifiers, object creators and other features.
Improved meshsmoothing has been included - so now your models can be made to look even more organic than ever! One of the other modifiers that has been added is "flex", which allows you to simulate clothlike effects.
The interface of MAX by default is very neat. All the menus are located at the sides of the screen, so that the workspace (which can be customised) views can be used without obstructions. However sometimes the NURBS toolbar does pop up in annoying positions...
I'd say that not much has been done to improve the rendering of MAX 3, probably to force you to buy Mental Ray separately..
The IK system is slightly easier to use than in MAX 2, thanks to some better placed options.. I still think that some of the button names are a bit misleading.... too many similar names - especially with the word "effector" on the end..
MAX is, in my opinion, the best value for money 3d package around. It is expensive, but not as much as MAYA or XSI... MAX has the largest user base, and from what I've heard its the easiest to use as well.

Plugins wise, MAX is excellent. There is such a large range to choose from - commercial, freeware, home -brewed if you know how to use MAX script!
MAX has nurbs, IK, splines, primitive shapes -everything you could want from a 3d modeller - EXCEPT FOR ONE THING - metaballs..

I know u can download a plugin, but I'd expect MAX to include a metaball modeller in future releases, fo
r completeness' sake!
Also, the animation features are to die for. Key framing is very simple, and nearly every aspect of an animation can be controlled by an expression if required (eg, light sources, repeating movements).
I just thought of another complaint! The booleaning system is not as precise as it could be. FORM Z, by another company still has the best Booleaning that i've seen..

Well, enough ranting... MAX 3 is the definitive version of MAX for me. MAX 4 hasnt quite reached me yet!! So if you do 3d.. I suggest you get MAX, and use the thousands you saved by not buying MAYA/XSI by purchasing a swanky new workstation!

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