Software
Painting
Mari + Mac
The Foundry has released the 3D digital painting application, Mari, for the Mac. Mari allows artists to paint directly onto 3D models using super-high-resolution textures and millions of polygons. In March 2013, The Foundry launched Mari 2, featuring a new artist-focused layer system that makes Mari easier to use. It also offers a familiar working environment for users of Adobe Photoshop and other layer-based paint tools. Mari for the Mac is introduced with Version 2.5, available now on all platforms.
www.thefoundry.co.uk
Animation
TIME SCULPT
The LightWave 3D Group has revealed ChronoSculpt, which introduces sculpting over time, for reviewing and correcting cache animation and dynamic simulation using time-based sculpting tools. ChronoSculpt uses a timeline-based workspace that includes tools to sculpt and manipulate 3D deformations and character cache animation over time. It supports soft- and rigid-body dynamics, and has the ability to sculpt and deform massive polygonal models on the timeline to correct and remove errors in real time. Its interface supports leading file formats for all professional 3D software. ChronoSculpt is priced at $399 and available for purchase at www.chronosculpt.com.
www.lightwave.com;
www.chronosculpt.com
Painting
ZBRUSHING
Pixologic has upgraded ZBrush to 4R6, which features an enriched tool set to increase creativity and productivity. The new ZRemesher provides entirely rebuilt retopology system. There are also new brushes and functions to improve workflow for both organic and hard-surface sculpting. ZBrush 4R6 is a free-of-charge upgrade for all registered users of ZBrush on Windows and Mac systems. ZBrush 4R6 Win and Mac is available from the Pixologic online store, for immediate download at $795 per license.
http://pixologic.com/zbrush
Hardware
Mobile Workstation
Quadro Power
MSI Computer has added two new offerings to its line of mobile professional workstations powered by Nvidia Quadro graphics: the GT70 20K and GT60 20J. Both have been certified by Adobe (CS 6), Autodesk, and SolidWorks, and come with Nvidia Quadro K3100M and K2100M graphics processors. Both units possess Nvidia Optimus technology, which enables designers and engineers to perform simultaneous rendering or structural/fluid analysis on the same system. The GT70 and GT60 Workstations feature Intel Core i7 quad-core processors, Killer DoubleShot for Ethernet and wi-fi connectivity, and Cooler Boost 2 Technology to instantly reduce system temperature. They ship with multimedia and gaming features, as well. The GT70 2OK and GT60 2OJ are available for approximately $2,600 and $2,000, respectively.
www.msimobile.com