StingRay HH4 Control Plate Necessary?

[TSWilson1964]

I noticed that my StingRay's control knobs come up through the wood before passing through the control plate. Previously, I had assumed there was a big empty cavity in there that made the plate necessary, but it appears to me that I could remove the plate for a cleaner, less "blingy" look.

Other than the added strength reinforcement of the metal plate, is there any reason it HAS to be there? Can't I just put the knobs through the holes in the wood?

 

[Holdsg]

anniversary models did not have the control plate. but, along with the ovoid pickguard, and headstock profile, there is nothing that screams "EBMM stingray" more than that control plate from a long distance. so its part of its DNA.

 

[Rod Trussbroken]

I noticed that my StingRay's control knobs come up through the wood before passing through the control plate. Previously, I had assumed there was a big empty cavity in there that made the plate necessary, but it appears to me that I could remove the plate for a cleaner, less "blingy" look.

Other than the added strength reinforcement of the metal plate, is there any reason it HAS to be there? Can't I just put the knobs through the holes in the wood?

The dual pickup SR4's have the electronics installed from the rear of the body (the largish cover on the back). However, the control plate was kept...in keeping with normal Sting Ray appearance . Single pickup SR4's have the electronics installed from the front and are attached to and supported by the control plate (which you expected to see).

 

[TSWilson1964]

The dual pickup SR4's have the electronics installed from the rear of the body (the largish cover on the back). However, the control plate was kept...in keeping with normal Sting Ray appearance . Single pickup SR4's have the electronics installed from the front and are attached to and supported by the control plate (which you expected to see).

So, I CAN remove the chrome cover with no adverse effects? I think I want to see the cleaner look if it won't hurt anything.

 

[five7]

like a sterling ?

 

[Rod Trussbroken]

So, I CAN remove the chrome cover with no adverse effects? I think I want to see the cleaner look if it won't hurt anything.

Pretty sure you can (just check with customer service first). Of course, you're going to have 8 screw holes showing.

 

[Soulkeeper]

This thread is wrong on so many levels. Well no, actually just one level: You don't mess with a classic look like that. Sacrilege!

 

[TSWilson1964]

Well, the company themselves did: they ditched the plates and pickguards on the anniversary models, and I just thought they looked leaner and cleaner. I can always go back if I decide I want the extra cabbage, but I just want to SEE it and PLAY it stripped down. I have a thing for naked.

 

[Soulkeeper]

You have a point. Obviously you also have a preference. And who's to tell you what to do with your own bass? (Unless you're married of course.) I'll just gnash my teeth in silence.

Says the guy who has to admit that he mods almost everything he can get his hands on ...

Btw, the only adverse effect that I can imagine, is in the unlikely event that the banana plate acts as shielding for the control cavity. But if it's back routed, it's probably shielded all the way on the inside anyway. Also check the thickness of the wood under the plate, just for peace of mind. Your pot shafts may become a little long without the plate? IDK. It'll probably just be a cosmetic issue anyway, if at all.

Good luck with the project.