The MPD2 Series is a product of over six years of detailed customer research and user feedback. We asked what you wanted and we listened closely. We took what you told us and turned it into the most capable and user-friendly line of pad controllers AKAI Professional has developed to date. The MPD218 is a MIDI-over-USB pad controller perfect for producers programmers musicians and DJs alike. Its intuitive blend of MPC controls and technologies mesh with easy USB connectivity to bring the feel of classic beat making into the world of computer music production. First we stepped up our game by adding new ultra sensitive Thick Fat MPC pads creating an amazingly responsive user experience. The MPD218 also has an expanded control set of six knobs in three banks versus one control on the previous MPD18 model. This will enable you to maximize your sound and give you increased control over effects. MIDI information is sent over its plug-and-play USB interface for use on Mac or PC eliminating the need to install any drivers. The USB connection powers the MPD218 so the included USB cable is all you need. Our MPD2 Series marks an important evolution of the pad controller. Many years of research and customer feedback has led directly to some of the most capable pad controllers ever developed. These MPDs are the perfect bridge between your creativity and your computer-based studio.