hey im new to the site, and i wanted to ask a question about sampling
im an extreme amateur so i apologise if my question is obvious.

i want to sample songs or beats, how would i go about doing this? what program would i use?

im also currently using garageband. is this a decent program to work with or should i upgrade to something else?

thanks

If you want to sample a rhythm loop you don't necessarily need a sampler, just record the loop as an audiofile - this can be done in GarageBand.

Sampler comes in more handy if you want to apply filters etc. on the sound - but even filtering can be done with appropiate plug-ins on an audiotrack, but I'm not quite sure how well GB handles track plugin automation.

You might want to check out Logic Express as the next step up from GB - and of course there's always Logic Pro 7 (there's a great sampler application called EXS24 mk II included in Logic) but I strongly recommend on starting with GB and then upgrading to more complex software as your skills develop and you can more accurately see what your actual needs are.

I agree. Take this in digestable bites (bytes?). Really learn what you have.
When you're ready, make a list. In column A, put 'needs', in column B, put 'wants'.
Favor the needs list but make sure you really 'own' the gear you have before you fall into the hype trap.
If you're on a Mac, get Reason w/Recycle for loops. On a PC, get Acid.
Then immerse yourself in the apps and make mistakes. that's how you learn.
Have a great time.
chap