Quick question:

I looked around and the answer wasnt quite clear. I need to change my rotors (pads are fine). Do I need to remove the pads from the calipers prior to changing the rotors or can I simply remove the calipers and swap rotors?

Brembos

 

in order to change the rotors, the caliper bracket comes off.

so that means, yes, you'll need to take the pads out.