Hmmm cheap but great programs.....
Free - $850
Merlin 3D(it's like the more expensive programs interface-wise but cheap)$550-750
Amphia(i think that's spelled right, anyways far more options then TS) the earlier versions can be found for FREE
Imagine(lightwave junior) $650-900
Rhino(excellent NURBS only modeller) $650+
Middle-level 'cheap' programs $900-3100
Lightwave(it's come along way baby!!!)
3d MAX(gack!!!)
Expensive $3000-9500
Mirai(NURBS modeller
SoftImage(Post king of Animation, best interface I've ever seen)
MAYA
There are other's I just can't remember them.
Anyhow.... yes do use forums that are dedicated to TS. The Caligari offical forums are the best I've seen(though the forum program sucks donkey ballZ!!!)for TS. But if you what C&C or inspiration then post it on a regular 3D forum! That way you will get a much fairer set of C&C responses and artistic advise.
And since your still using TS3.... a little advise. Don't bother upgrading to TS5(+)! Wait until TS 6 comes out try the demo and if it isn't improved FAR beyond the current version then buy something else.
