I use both, IMO its whatever your more comfortable. I always used MAX but the SGIs only had Maya and ive found that u can do the same with both. Its just what environment u prefer really.

I know what ur saying about MAX though, its ageing and getting a little crowded.

Quote:

Original post by Pixel Tamer Perhaps I haven't been looking at the right site? (http://www.softimage.com)

That's the right site, for polygon modelling XSI and Max are pretty even right now although a lot of people prefer the XSI interface. I mean you can't build characters without polygon modelling so I'm not sure why you would think you can't build props, buildings, etc.

It's not that I thought it couldn't handle it. Of course it could handle it, but since it's designed for another specific purpose, it would be like using a sledgehammer to drive a 2" nail: doable, but clumsy.

Any type of 3D modeling program can draw polygons, but the ones that focus on just polygons and meshes will, I assume, come equipped with more options to aid specifically in that endeavor. For instance, I have no doubt I can use a face generator to produce a complex bridge network with struts, support beams, and all, but wouldn't 3ds or Maya allow me to accomplish the same thing much more quickly? If not, then why are people paying an arm and a leg for these programs?

But at any rate, I saw that they had a 30 day trial version available, so fret not, I will definitely take it for a spin.

Quote:

Original post by Pixel Tamer It's not that I thought it couldn't handle it. Of course it could handle it, but since it's designed for another specific purpose, it would be like using a sledgehammer to drive a 2" nail: doable, but clumsy. Any type of 3D modeling program can draw polygons, but the ones that focus on just polygons and meshes will, I assume, come equipped with more options to aid specifically in that endeavor. For instance, I have no doubt I can use a face generator to produce a complex bridge network with struts, support beams, and all, but wouldn't 3ds or Maya allow me to accomplish the same thing much more quickly? If not, then why are people paying an arm and a leg for these programs? But at any rate, I saw that they had a 30 day trial version available, so fret not, I will definitely take it for a spin.

you got it!
the main difference in most 3d apps is thier workflow, 3ds amx and maya have a lot better of a work environment and so you have a higher workflow. the worst 3d app in terms of workflow but has great features from what i hear is blender. but everything in 3ds max and maya is possible in blender, its justa matter of how long it will take you.
however between max and maya, i for one choose max. its interface is just more intuitive to me.