Archive notice: This article was originally published on February 21, 2005. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
According to the manufacturer, the program was revised primarily with regard to performance and stability and is intended to enable users who need to process large data sets to have a stable and efficient workflow. To this end, the tools for Scene Segmentation and Management already introduced with Maya 6 were further improved and expanded. Through these tools, the user gains better control over the data and gets the management of loading times under control more efficiently, as well as the interaction of teams working in parallel and the management of access rights.
The Scene Segmentation enhancements include general improvements to the existing file referencing functions as well as new options such as Proxies, Reference Locking and the ability to trace and save changes down to a reference. In addition, according to Alias, data sets from almost all common CAD applications can be imported smoothly and quickly with the help of the new STEP translator.
In the rendering field, the manufacturer implemented “Mental Ray for Maya Satellite,” a new form of network rendering, among other things. Numerous improvements were also introduced to the modeling options and the workflow for character animations. You can find a detailed test of Maya 6.5 in DP 03:05.
Prices for a full version remain unchanged and are 2,435 euros for Maya Complete 6.5 and 8,525 euros for Maya Unlimited. Upgrade prices start at 1,100 euros for Maya Complete and 1,518 euros for Maya Unlimited.
Alias is also offering the software at special conditions until June 30, 2005: As part of the so-called “Get Current” promotion, owners of all older Maya versions can upgrade directly to version 6.5. At a price of 2,551 euros (Complete version) or 8,351 euros (Unlimited), the “Maya Productivity Pack” includes, in addition to the new release, a selection of the best-selling Maya Learning Tools and a one-year subscription to the Silver Membership Program. The Maya Platinum Bundle finaly combines Maya 6.5 with a one-year Platinum Membership and a Maya textbook.
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