I'm in a similar position: I'm new to 3d modelling, I've tried Daz Studio 'cos the price is right (free). But it's sluggish and the QT gui is clunky. I tied the Poser demo, but it's so crippled I can't relly tell if I like it or not. The Poser gui looks appalling -- a dreadful use of screen real estate. Vue 5 looks interesting, but it's beyond my current financial means. Do I have any other choice but Poser in the self-financing price range? I don't think so.