Newbie Question: Max vs Max Design

[big idea]

I know I know, google it......I already did.

 

I needed a more pinpointed answer though, and here's the question...

 

In today's industry of archviz, are most people using the design version? I realize that the design version is targeted at the visualization market, but I was just curious if most people just stuck with the standard version since its the "total package."

 

Basically, heres my deal. I currently use Modo (casually) to create my renders, nothing fancy though. I am interested in switching over to max for various reasons as soon as I build my new little workstation.

 

So..Any thoughts/insights/ideas about max and/or max design when it comes to visualizations? Are there any obvious reasons to pick one over the other that I'm not seeing?

 

Thanks

 

BIG IDEA

[Justin Hunt]

what is your understanding of "Total Package"?

 

As you have problably read they are essentially the same except design doesn't have SKD and Max doesn't have lighting analysis.

 

jhv

[big idea]

Thanks for the quick reply.

 

I dont really have the skills or desire to use SDK, so thats no issue at all.

 

I thought that maybe the design version was shaved down to just accommodate still shots and perhaps simple product animation, so thats why I was calling the standard version a "total package". Of course I could be totally wrong. I just don't feel like I was able to find answers online about the two different packages. Is it safe to say that max design is the same thing as standard max, just with the added lighting features? If I buy training for max, will it still be applicable with max design?

 

I guess what I'm trying to ask is, is the design version lacking anything that standard version has to offer (besides SDK)?

 

Thanks for bearing with me, just trying to lean about things before I invest.

 

BIG IDEA

[AJLynn]

Aside from that it's the same thing. Both are complete packages. If you don't program, the SDK won't be useful so get Design to get the lighting analysis tools.

[Justin Hunt]

For a definitve answer take a look at The Area website, look for the blogs and read through Ken's posts. It is well covered.

 

jhv

[big idea]

Wow, the area looks nice and juicy. I am really interested in picking up a copy of max design, but I have not been able to find educational pricing for max design 2011. Will educational licenses be available soon?

[PiXeL_MoNKeY]

You can see the current differences on the Autodesk website, here.

 

-Eric

[kenpimentel]

We offer a free 13 month license of 3ds Max Design to students of accredited schools. You'd have to check your particular school to see if they host the free downloads.