Where exactly should the sample content for a vst instrument set, say for padshop pro be located?
Sample content for Steinberg VST’s is usually located at: C:\Program Files\Cubase 7.5\VST Sound
Yeah, those files are encrypted and inaccessible, so forget about sample manipulation… 
BTW, Padshop is an exception. Its sounds are located at: C:\ProgramData\Steinberg\Content\Padshop\VST Sound