Eric Hansen wrote:

How do I maintain a good level while avoiding digital overs on such an
explosive technique that is performed on a relatively quiet instrument?

Turn it down.

Limiting or compressing while tracking?

Definitely not. You can't undo this.

Better mic pre with more headroom?

That is a totally different issue. If your mike preamp does not have
much headroom, turning it up won't make it any better. This is utterly
unconnected with your digital levels.
--scott
--
"C'est un Nagra. C'est suisse, et tres, tres precis."