So there were some questions on the magic loop. Adele metioned encountering problematic loose stitches at the initial join. I haven't had this issue at all, in fact, I've found that magic loop causes less problems at joins than DPNs. A photo demo seems in order.

I learned magic loop entirely from this internet demo.

Here's the sock in progress. I am using a 32" US size 2 Addi turbo needle. Apparently longer needles work even better, but this one has been fine so far.

Note the closed loops at either side. This is one thing I've found is crucial for no-loose-stitches at the join: cross the cord at either side. This reduces the pressure on the stitches there.

Here are some close ups of either side.

This is about 6-7 stitches into the round. Since the back stitches are resting on the circular needle cord, when you pull the first stitch tight, the previous one can get even tighter than the needle circumference. So the little bit of unavoidable looseness can even out later.

Hope this is helpful to any aspiring magic-loopers out there!