Paul, that probably is good for you from what you said. I have to mention that DS is free and it's got animation and the powerpose I actually find easier than carrara(it's very nice).You can use native then export a pz2 from DS w/ it's free script exporter.DS doesn't have rigging yet tho, but carrara 5 does.They even have a bvh plugin for D|S along with many others coming very soon (might already be out).

No need to think outside the box....
    Just make it invisible.