I would have to disagree with that, I found the max interface clunky, with cinema 4D being much easier for a beginner. I was producing passable 3D work within 2 months of starting with cinema. Its only downside is a fairly poor set of poly editing tools.
If your a designer who wants to produce 3D quickly use Cinema 4D
If you want to become a serious 3D modeller use max or maya.