overdriving samples

how do you guys do it?

a-do you overdrive(redline) the source then sample into the mpc normally
b-no redline from the source but let it clip going into the mpc
c-mess with the gain switches in the back

i usually let my turntable mixer go upto clipping levels but sample into the mpc at moderate level. tried other way but not as good results. i always leave the gain switch to low tho

I'd rather sample clean, then apply distortion as a non-destructive fx when mixing.

Using outboard FX units would definitely give better control over the sound shape. Furthermore, routing different parts through the separate outputs would allow you to choose what to clip, what not to.

If you're into distorting you might get a bunch of those cheap guitar pedals and mess around. I never tried them though, I stay clean all the time.

I usually do it in the 60, but I don't do it much, I prefer to distort the samples from the 60 in my mixer or through effects, but I'll have to try clipping in my mixer before sampling.

Whenever I use my MPC i usually have the volume at like half way. When I sample I usually turn the gain up for drums so it goes in the red but not so it gets distorted or anything. My shit ain't the hardest but it's cool for a beginner with no outboard gear and really bad eq on a really bad dj mixer.

A. Possible, but it depends on your mixer how good this will sound.
B. Never clip a digital signal, ever. Set it 1Db below clipping to be sure.
C. Always set you gain as high as possible without clipping.

I never distort anything when sampling or recording. The way i work (recording to a computer) it's works better if you do it afterwards. You can always undo it, and decide how much distortion you want when mixing down. You have the loudest, cleanest signal going into your computer. You can process at 32bit, with special distortion tools. This will sound better than just distorting your mixer.
Something like Izotope Trash will give you a lot of control over your distortion, unlike a mixer.

Well, clipping into your sampler can be kinda cool. Not cool on a computer, but into a sampler it can be interesting if you don't want clean.

yeah the turntable mixer that im using, vestax 07, sounds like shit anyway, so i just crank it up. im on a very limited setup, just the mpc and turntables with no effects. so i have to make the best out of what ive got...