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View Full Version : 3D studio max for macbook?



nilserb
May 24, 2009, 09:47 AM
Is this available for the mac? I havent been able to get autoCAD and theyre both made by the same company. Also, I have the latest macbook, would that be able to cope with 3d max? Theres no point getting it if its gonna be all crappy and slow.


iLog.Genius
May 24, 2009, 10:14 AM
Currently there is no 3D Studio Max for OS X. There is Maya as an alternative but it might/might not meet your needs or suit you.
mathcolo
May 24, 2009, 12:19 PM
Since software like 3D Studio Max is not available for Mac OS X, you might be able to run it successfully using Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion.

It may not run as well as it would natively, but it would definitely be usable if it was running on a relatively up-to-date Mac.
nilserb
May 24, 2009, 12:46 PM
I dont know what parallels is. Thats annoying, I dont want to have to learn yet another program! I've had to learn vectorworks as an alternative for autoCAD. Before I get maya, does anyone know if its similar to 3d max to use?
iLog.Genius
May 24, 2009, 01:03 PM
I dont know what parallels is. Thats annoying, I dont want to have to learn yet another program! I've had to learn vectorworks as an alternative for autoCAD. Before I get maya, does anyone know if its similar to 3d max to use?

You could call them similar since they both do 3D modeling and animation but consider Maya much more "advanced" with a much higher learning curve. If you're doing something simple, I'd stick with 3DS and considering Maya, IIRC, is much more expensive.

Especially with these programs, learning curve has to be a considering factor so I'd recommend installing Windows (natively through Boot Camp) on your Mac and stick with 3DS since you already have some background knowledge of it.
nilserb
May 24, 2009, 01:13 PM
I've no idea how to install windows, i might ask someone to sort that out for me. I'm new to macs, its been difficult! well, I'd be handy enough on 3d max but if maya is better than maybe i should consider trying to learn it. Cant be that diff, right??
galstaph
May 24, 2009, 05:07 PM
you could also get in on the beta (free with registration) for rhino 4 for OSX, rhino may not do animation, but as a simple 3d design program it fits the bill nicely.
or blender works as well (and it is free)