Cinema4d CE is the same as Cinema 4dXL, only with render size limitations, no SLA (Smells Like Almonds - a set of pre-made textures and shaders), and of course no manuals. CE+ is the same as XL - sans manuals. I have Cinema 4d XL 6, and for many things, I find Cinema easier to use than Carrara. I really like the way modifiers are handled, because I can go back to the first object I created in a complex model, and modify it. If you are looking for an inexpensive, very powerful 3D app, the "free" cover version Cinema 4d CE is a deal you can't go wrong with.

Now for Carrara 3. I have recently made a comittment to put more energy into learning and using Carrara. Carrara 3 is an outstanding value, and the render engine is awsome for such a reasonably priced piece of software. When the Poser plugin comes out, I will be able to do almost all of my non-landscape 3D work in Carrara.

When Eovia released C3, making the decision between upgrading to C3 or Cinema 4dXL 8x was simple. The upgrade for Cinema would be $800.00, I got the C3 upgrade for about $130.00. With C3 I got a tree maker and caustics, both of these would have cost extra with Cinema (xfrog and advanced render plugin/module), and put the cost well over $1,000.00. Unless you have a business that depends on specific funtionality, or tools, found in Cinema, 3DS Max, Lightwave, etc., C3 is really hard to beat.

Of course, if you want to learn 3D to get a job at a production company, then C3 is not the software to focus on. But if you want to learn the concepts behind 3D, make truely stunning images, and be able to eat out once in a while, then you just can't beat C3. It's not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog, that determines the final outcome. The same is true with software. The cost of the software is not nearly as important as the skill and determination of the user.

If C3 fits within your budget, you really can't go wrong with it. If not, then Cinema 4D CE (or CE+) would be a good choice. It's always worthwhile to check out software on ebay, althought you do need to be careful, always ask the seller if the software comes with a full, legal, upgradeable license. Carrara Studio 1 (in the box) has been going for around $29.00 (or free on magazines from the UK), you could purchase an older version and upgrade, which can save you a lot (I have purchased a lot of software off of ebay, only had a couple of problems, and saved a lot).

Good Luck!

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