One thing that has puzzled me conceptually is how to set levels through a rig so that there isn't the wrong kind of clipping at any point in the signal path.

As I understand it, you can see metering at various points in the path-- which can help.

But I'm wondering if there is a general "best practices" approach to setting levels through pre effects, amp, cab, loop, post fx, etc. to keep things safely below clipping.

Any tips?