Hardware Question: MPD18 vs Maschine Mikro

I was wondering if the MPD18 could be used in a way similar to the Maschine Mikro, and what sort of software would be needed to trigger the samples? I own Ableton Live and Cubase 4 (planning an upgrade to 6 soon). I also have the APC40, if that makes a difference.

The videos of Maschine and Maschine Mikro on youtube look quite interesting and I'd like to give it a go but at a much lower price/entry point, if possible.

I guess I just don't know a lot about triggering samples and loops, to be honest.

Thanks for your help!!