Akai MPD 16 - Need Some "... for Dummies" advice

[Esquire]

I know a few of you out there use the Akai MPD 16. Forgive my ignorance, but I'd appreciate an explanation of how exactly it works (in general). I'm thinking about using it first and foremost for phrase samples for mixes, but would eventually (after learning how to use it) like to use it to make beats. At a basic level, I'm looking for the functionality of a Yamaha su200, in the sense that I can assign a sample to a pad and just hit the pad when I need it. The MPD 16 appears to be just a pad. Does it include software that will allow me to assign a phrase to each pad? Will I need some separate software for the sampling? Thanks in advance for your help!!!

[pyssdogg]

works like any other midi controller

just has drum pads vs. keys...what are u using as a sopund source that this will trigger?

for a lil' more money...you should be able to pick up a used mpc or mpcxl on ebay

[SPINSTERWUN]

I use my MPD 16 with Battery and Sonar 2.0/Acid 4.0/FLP v3.

I use the MPD to trigger the samples in Battery.

I use Sonar/Acid/FLP for sequencing purposes.