I've had a chance to look at the concepts and user interfaces of the major applications for this 3D fun and, as I see it, the concepts are all much the same. Getting to know the concepts and be easy with it all in Carrara will save $ until you are ready to spend $$$$ for the ultimate stuff.
There are other forums that smile patronizingly at Carrara while they speak of getting  a  $2000 upgrade on their own app.
Sure. When we're ready for that kind of power...