Creating Loops ( Guitar and/or Keyboard) * new to Ableton 5

[oolongcamio]

Im very sorry if this has been asked already, and in some form also been answered.
Im new to Ableton 5. The one thing I am having trouble with is loops. Lets say I want to record a midi loop, well first once I actually figure out how to record a loop, there is a pause on the beginning of the loop, and they just dont flow like a loop should. Unless I play the loop as soon as I hit record, but I know there must be an easier way.
I really have had a hard time creating good loops. I am looking for some information or online tutorial on how to easily cut the beginning and/or end time of a loop and create a loop that flows nicely. I never did loops or loop chopping so this is all new to me. Info on making the midi loops would be helpfull first, Im sure guitar could be tricky but that to would be so so helpfull.
Perhaps theres a way to have the last note in the loop fade out as the loop starts over again ? I hope I am making sense. I am waiting for the dvd tutorial and book to come out because I need hands-on teaching for things and so far my only resort is forums and books.
In a nut shell, Im lost with the Loop process, Im not even sure how to properly arm the selected cell for looping. ANy info , tutorials, advice is appreciated and I thank you for your time to have read this.

* one more thing , any advice on how to enter drum changes or drum fills before a chorus or bridge ect ect. as well.

[inis]

It sounds like you havnt got the quantanization down. Check it out in the manual. There is a global quantize pull down in the transport controls. It will allow you to click record to start the loop (which is what i think you are trying to do) before the beat even hits. Just read about it, you'll get it.