Yeah if you have used vue before, you can recognise a render straight away. Indeed the single core usage is somewhat of a pain. Im using 7 at the moment, I cant afford to upgrade to 8 just yet and there arn't many features that aren't available in 7 already.
I could never get bryce looking realistic, all though if it is free than I guess its understandable.
Vue also has a free version which has the same limitations as bryce i believe. Or pay $99 for Vue Frontier, Its actually a great deal for what you get.
I had to buy the full version so I could import scenes into C4D.
What do you use Rolfy?
Nomad soul, Definitly give Vue Pionier a download. It is really fun to use!