Scene Optimization

[Deflaminis]

I came across a problem like this recently, and due to our time constraints and pipeline merging wasn't an option. (Commercials, you know how it is.) This script saved my bacon. http://www.scriptspot.com/3ds-max/scripts/cleaner

[svetlozar.draganov]

Yep! Merged and at 1920 X 1080, nice and clean, in 20 minutes. I did remove the HDRI from the dome light, but that wasn't the issue. Also, I am using IM+LC but again, I tried that before. Something is happening to my file, which takes a merge to fix. I only use a few scripts:

Relink
FilePathFinder Pro
Oily's VMC

Is there any difference in the render settings between the original and merged scene?
I've tried to merge the scene into a new file and indeed the rendering is much faster with the default settings but as soon as I adjust the Image Sampler settings to match the ones from the original scene the render speed drops to the same levels.

Would it be possible to attach a merged-version of the scene also?