3D modeling software?

[Edison]

As much of a Mac hound as I am, I'm seriously considering training in some of the PC based ID programs.

does anyone out there have experience with CAD-oriented software like SolidWorks, Rhino, Maya, or even Alias? I've done some research and access and training is difficult to find for these programs.

If anyone has any leads, I'd be grateful.

[chrismcavoy]

This isn't really a good response, but have you looked at Google Sketchup? It's a free 3d modeling tool. I played with it for all of ten minutes or so, and realized I didn't know what I was doing. In the hands of a creative young man like yourself, I'm thinking it could do some neat stuff. There's also a freebie called Blender that might be good.

As for training, I have no idea.

[Edison]

Actually Chris, a close friend of mine that I spoke with earlier today recommended the free Sketchup download. He said he had a ball with it, and that it was very user-friendly. How much it speaks with modeling machines is not clear, but it sounds very artist-friendly.

Another program, 3D-S Max, is supposedly easier and more intuitive than SolidWorks.

There are Mac-based programs like ZBrush and Mudbox that give amazing results, but I need something that'll talk to modeling lathes and lithographers (which are all CAD-based machines).
It's where my particular business is going.

[Frank Vu]

Maya is on the Mac.

[Edison]

Maya is on the Mac.

That is good news, but the Mac system requirements and cost/training keep it from being the best choice for me right now. Maya software and support is still in the $10,000 price-range. I do need something that interfaces with CAD well, and I know less expensive PC programs like Rhino and SoldWorks do that. The programs that seem likely at this point are 3DS Max, and virtual sculpting programs like ZBrush and Mud Box. ZBrush is Mac-based and the results are highly detailed and photographic, but I hear it's less user-friendly than the PC-based Mud Box. Mud Box is a very recent program developed by the CGI people at Weta Workshop (Director; Peter Jackson's shop).
Lastly, there's a new program coming by Luxology called Modo 301 which promises CAD-interface accuracy with free-form virtual sculpting, painting and rendering. For me this sounds like it's everything I'd need, but right now it's lots of pre-release hype.

If anyone is curious about these programs, there are galleries of work on the respective sites as well as YouTube videos that demonstrate their use.
They're pretty impressive to watch.

[Gass]

Edison,

I can get you a copy of Maya for $399 (all legal like).

[Edison]

Edison,

I can get you a copy of Maya for $399 (all legal like).

I've sent you a PM, Ed.