I use 3D Studio Max 6...the reason it took long was because I did some supersampling on the spheres so that the reflections and refractions were not edgy. Without supersampling it took 4 hours, but it looks much better this way.
If the automobile had followed the same development as the computer, a Rolls-Royce would today cost $100, get a million miles per gallon, and explode once a year killing everyone inside.
the whole image is absolutely georgeous. strangely enough, my favorite sphere is the one in the background. you did a really great job. keep going. gives people like me hope that we really can do great stuff if we try.