Can't seem to save a channel strip as default

Rather than starting with an electric piano and several inserts (my current settings), I want new software instruments to load up completely clean.

What I've tried:

1. Load up new software instrument track

2. Clear all insert / send / instrument settings from new track

3. Right click on track -> "Store as User Defaults"

However, when I then create another software instrument track, it's the same electric piano.

What am I doing wrong?

Thanks!

Choose empty channel strip on the dialog:

That's one too many clicks for my carpal tunnel

Option-Command-S for creating new Software Instrument track.

Select empty channel strip. It will remember that for the next one. Total clicks: one. Still too many?

Sorry, I'm confused - how do I select the empty channel strip?

I'm wondering if the "remembering" function is what threw me in the first place. I always use ⌥⌘S to create new MIDI tracks and I couldn't for the life of me remember specifying an Electric Piano in the first place.

how do I select the empty channel strip?

Based on the screenshot I posted, you should see where it says Empty Channel Strip, click on that.