I was using both of the LightWave 6.5 and Max 3.1... Max is a little easier for animations and Special FX are not bad but LW is more complete. There is more Plugs for MAX but LW need less. Personaly I love LW... He is not hard to learn, he have very good special FX (particle system is the best with HyperVoxel 3.0). Useful plugs are not really expensive (not all). Modeling tools are really good. And he is used for MOVIES, MAX not (yet). LW was used to make RED PLANET, PITCH BLACK... LW is my favorite but MAX is not bad and a little less cost. NOW I'M USING LIGHTWAVE ONLY