levels...

i use my mpc connected through a vestax 05 pro into my home stereo.
question...
what level would an experienced mpc head suggest to set the master of the mpc to?
should i set it to a mid level and boost it up thru the mixer, or after the mix down?...

the same rules apply for all audio. have the gain at each device in the chain set to about the same so that it records so that the levels are in the -6 to -4 range.
Play with it until its thumpin out around there.