What do you want to do with it? If you just want to make models to render in Bryce then Silo or wings 3D. Do you want to animate and rig characters? Do you want to do architectural scenes. Animation? Since money is no object then get maya complete with T splines and renderman plug ins that will only set you back 20,000 dollars or so.

Are going to pirate the software? Software piracy does not hurt the big expensive packages it hurts the little guys. Why would you pay a few hundred for a lesser program when you can get a pirated copy of whatever ubersoftware for next to nothing. When you get the money you might buy the ubersoftware but the little guys are crushed in the process.

XSI, And Lightwave can do most everything the more expensive packages can do. More actually because they do not need expensive plug ins to get them up to speed for most things. Both are used in major studios. Advantages of each Lightwave has a larger user base and more tutorials etc. XSI has fewer legacy issues.

The wit of a misplaced ex-patriot.
I cheated on my metaphysics exam by looking into the soul of the person next to me.