Autodesk is now shipping 3ds Max, its 3D modeling, animation and rendering software. Autodesk's suggested retail price for 3ds Max 2009 is $3,495, or $895 to upgrade. Key features include:

· A new Reveal rendering toolset, which streamlines iterative workflows

· ProMaterials material library for simulating real-world surfaces

· Improved interoperability with products including Autodesk Revit Architecture, Mudbox, Maya and MotionBuilder software, as well as other third-party applications

· Numerous biped enhancements, as well as additional time-saving animation and mapping workflow tools