Thanks so much for the help guys!!
I think I'm getting it now. I came across some other material that resonated with what you are saying. Fortunately, I got the run down here before reading that and could understand what was going on.
I found this on the Microchip forums (pro-tip: Microchip forums' search is TERRIBLE. Search Google for '%searchterm% site:microchip.com/forum'):
Microchip Technology User Forums
If you scroll about half way down, you'll notice they included a circuit which uses op amps in a voltage follower configuration as well as a headphone amp. Perfect. I'll be purchasing these parts tonight.
So, aside from a LPF, you think I'll be alright on the ADC side? I noticed clipping from when I turned my iPod all the way up in my current configuration so, if anything, I think I'll be good without any amplification, am I right?
If so, HOORAY!
For the record, I am making a 'Daft Punk table' with this. Search YouTube for 'daft punk table'. Ultimately, it is a coffee table with an array of lights undeneath the surface. I am using the dsPIC to process audio in real time and flash the array of LEDs according to the beats (think bandpass filters measuring magnitude of sounds).