routing question: using external micpre as a send

[amcnally336]

So....
I just picked up a SWEET Tube channel strip (Pendulum), and I want to be able to use it as a send when recording other tracks. Here is the scenario:

Machinedrum coming in from soundcard audio in 3/4

Set this track to record arm so I can hear the signal.

Put track out to sends only, turn send knob all the way up

Return track: this is routed to ex out 3, which goes into my Pendulum channel strip...

Pendulum channel is set-up on another track. Receive audio from ex in 5 (which is where the Pendulum outputs its signal.

I then record arm this track, so that I am now receiving the machinedrum which has been sent through the external micpre/ channel strip (which is midblowing PHAT...as PHAT as PHAT can be...no, seriously, it does AMAZING things to the signal! Completely erases the digital residue, if you know what I mean!) and is now coming into this track

All this works fine, but I can't seem to set it up so that I DON"T hear the original signal comimg in. I only want to hear the sent signal which is coming from the pre...not the original untreated sound. I try the various monitoring options and mute, but can't seem to get around hearing the original signal!

Can anyone suggest an alternative routing scheme or explain what I am overlooking. I would prefer to do this as a send so I can send multiple signals through the pre, but if that is not doable I am open to suggestions. I'll tell ya, the tube gear just does a GREAT job of warming up some of the digital streams. I love digital when I need that timbre, but it is nice to change it in this o so lovely way!

I appreciate the help!!

[monobeach]

in Live 7, wouldn't that work by using the "External Audio Effect" device on the return track (chapter 20.10 in the manual)?
setting it 100% wet, one would hear only the signal that's coming back