Max 6 modifier keys problem

In Max 6: When the Option or Command keys are held down, pressing any other key makes Max complain (beep) - (unless the editor can interpret the key press, ie option-arrow makes a selected object move). Max 5 didn't do this.

I want to use the Option key to modify keyboard input, but the beeps are driving me crazy.

Looked in Max Preferences to see if there was anything I could change - thought maybe disabling Typing Automatically Edits Selected Box might work. Doesn't help. Also tried locking/presentation mode, no luck.

How can I get the editor to stop trying to interpret my modified key presses????

Mac OS X 10.7.2, MacBook Pro, Max 6.0.2.