cibnema 4d is way better than bryce... the difference is in the modelling.... and the renders... c4d has nurbs modelling that is so easy it shames other high end apps (i also had 3dmax and still learning to use it) the metaballs can be exported to other apps... i havent tried it yet... try this... model it... then click the covert to mesh button at the left thats looks like a 2 vase button... if it works exprt it (save as) 3ds, obj etc... mmmm better have my comp fixed and chaeck it soon