i tried to learn max. i even MADE myself work at it an hour a day. but, for some reason it did not click. i currently use lightwave, and, i love it. what is right for one may not be right for someone else. for some reason, 3d software preferences depend on individual learning skills. if money is no worry, you should, i think go for something like lightwave/max/cinema 4d, or maya. that way you have it all....you can build your own models, rig them, render, and, even animate them.