CompuServe Messages

Al… I took a look at the file you uploaded. Though it's a very nice finish (and at the risk of sounding like a jerk), I don't see the polished metal part. Still looks kinda like a satinish aluminum, which is what I think all "flat mesh" metals in 3DS look like. Yours, however, is indeed superior to default materials. Once again, I don't believe "chrome" or other "polished" metal is possible. Have you seen "Beyond the Mind's Eye" video (I think everyone in 3D probably has)? There are several scenes with "CHROME!" robots in there. Beautiful reflective chrome. I believe that's what most people are expecting when they first get 3DS, cause I know I was (it was the first finish I tried to dup after purchase). Realizing these robot scences were done with megabuck SGI machines with software to match, one can't expect the same performance with 3DS 'cause it's not really apples to apples. Autodesk will get it though. If they can knock Intergraph off their pedestal, they can duplicate chrome. 3DS is a great program for the money, even though some complain about high price (high price? compared to what?) I hear that the next release is to be on much the same level as SGI's quality, cause of 32bit. Have you heard any juicy rumors about this and how much it might cost us for an upgrade? I appreciate you takin' the time to chat regarding this. Did solve the glass thing though. Talk to ya soon. Thanks, Kev.