I've been down the "can't find the right modeler highway" too (as has anyone learning to model in 3d on their own). Part of the problem was I didn't know much about 3d modeling (still don't), so almost all applications seemed very difficult. The other part of the problem was finding a modeler that fit the way I think. I got C4D XL6, and it just felt right.

A couple of months later I needed to make an achitectural model at work, which gave me a focus with a needed product, to learn C4D. I was able to complete the model, and learned ALOT in the process. But if I didn't have a well defined goal, with strict time limits, it would have taken a lot longer to learn C4D.

The moral to this story? If you don't have a defined project that you have to complete, you could spend a lot of time looking for a "good" modeler, and never find the right one. If C4D seemed to fit, then takes Ben's advice and register for the class. Taking a class gives you the needed direction, focus, and timelines to learn the software. For $20 it a great deal!

If you don't feel comfortable with C4D at the end of the course, you'll have enough knowledge about 3d modeling to pick the right application, for you.

I still love C4D, and have been drooling over C4D Version 9x for some of it's new modeling tools, but haven't been able to justify the upgrade cost. I recently purchased Hexagon (I also use CS4 - so the crossgrade to Hex was a real good deal), and I love it. It is fast, and easy to learn/use, and has a great work flow (for me). But had I not gotten my feet wet with C4D, Hex would be seem a little difficult too.

Good luck on your quest!

ps: C4D 6 (ce) may be old - but it's still a fantastic piece of software. If your not real serious about modeling, it will serve you well for years to come for the occasional modification or new design.

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