use a pad so that you can use less of the gain attenuation...
sounds like its an "eh" choice either way, but i guess the pad would be the best route
so....would it be better to run the pad on the mics or the unit or both?
I don't think this is a dumb question.
No it is not. Just say you got the record level on about a "4 - 5" with just the 20 db pad on the deck, and you could run the knob on about "7 - 8" with the pad on and -10 db on the mic pads as well. Doug would say that it is better to run it with both pads, and the higher record level setting, but doubts the difference would be audible. I personally prefer to run my mics wide open, and put the hottest signal possible to the deck, then let it (the 671) attenuate. Therefore, I personally run the knob about 4 - 5 (11 to 12 o'clock), instead of putting turning the pad on my mics. I would say try both at a loud recording, and see if YOU hear a difference.