Its why Im so tempted to get an MPC, but I dont really need one, I just want one. Will probably be a massive waste of money, if I ever get around to getting one.
I learned HTML, CSS, Flash, PHP to build a website because I couldnt afford to pay somebody to do it.
I quickly learned the value of sampling when I first joined here. I was shit at it, but just kept at it, then got pretty good at it.
Most important thing about sampling is chopping on the zero crossover point of the wav/mp3, that will prevent clicks.
Start with a basic loop and compose over it, you should feel right at home doing that, its what I usually do when sampling, unless Im going to town on something. Then find another chop to throw in as an end to 8 bars or 16 bars, preferably different chops for each, its these that keep things interesting while the main loop creates the hypnotic groove. Im not a big fan of overly chopped sample styles, unless its primo, he does it best IMO. I find most of it hard to groove to.
Just jump in head first, have fun with it and you might find it can be great inspiration when the creative block comes along. You might even come over to the East Coast dark side for a bit and add some of that to the repertoire.
Its just like buying some explosive rounds for your gun, a different kind of ammo for war because you never know when you might need it, and its better to have it when that time comes, than not.
My main point though is if you find a hurdle in the way, get over it by all means necessary, dont say I cant do this or that, that makes you your own worst enemy. Just give it a try until you crack it.