Ableton Forum

Can you have, let's say a simple melodyprogression and play your midikeyboard WITHOUT recording the midinotes? Just like in SX where you just mark the channel even if it's playing something, you can always play your keyboard. Is there some option in the preferences that I have missed?

turn off the overdub button at the top. then turn it back on when you're ready to record.

alternatively, create a new midi channel and where it says "midi to"...route that to the primary midi channel...this way you can keep the "parts"/melodies isolated.