Problems with Loopy metronome and confusion about 'Monitoring'

HI, everyone -

Great forum! So cool that the developer is listening to the user. Loopy is an app that could be a game changer for me, if I can figure out how to use it properly. I have a problem, though - I hope someone can help. For reference, see a diagram of my setup below my text. iPad is new 6th gen, software up to date. I have a couple of issues and a question, if you have the time.

Here's are my issues:

1. I tap in my beat, ready to lay down the first loop. The metronome has no '1' - just silence, then high hat on 2, 3, and 4. I record (without the '1' - kinda tough) and as soon as the loop plays, the bass drum is back on the one. It doesn't matter if monitoring is set on or off - the result is the same. Can I get the metronome to play with the kick prior to a loop playing back?

2. The metronome will not shut off during performance. Let's say I have a few loops going, and I want to mute the metronome for a couple of bars. I touch the metronome, and it goes dark - but the beat is still coming through my speaker and headphones. I touch it again and it lights up - still running (like I assume it should). Is there a way to mute the metronome during a loop performance?

3. This one isn't as important, but still puzzles me. The metronome is very loud compared to the rest of my audio. I have to turn it down to practically zero to match my instruments (see setup below) Is there a way to either match my audio to the normal volume of the metronome, or a way to turn the metronome volume range down?

And finally, here's my question:

I would love to use some percussion loops instead of the metronome for live looping. I understand the developer has an app called 'Audiobus 3' that looks interesting, and may be useful for this application? I would like to drag a drum loop into Loopy and have it be on a loop set so that the rest of the loops I record are in time with it. Is it possible to have a drum loop from another app act as the master time loop so that the rest of my loops are timed perfectly with it? If so, what apps would I need? Audiobus 3 along with a drum loop app? What app/apps would you recommend for this purpose?

Thanks so much for your time, whomever is reading this. I really want to get Loopy working for me in a live looping situation - I could never stomp loop pedals in time close enough to feel comfortable using them live. If I can make this app work, I would be one happy musician!

Thanks much -

Feast