Is the StingRay control plate necessary?

[TimWilson]

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?

[Caca de Kick]

You must have a dual pickup StingRay then.
The single pickup StingRays have a big empty cavity on the top of body.
They're just keeping the classic image of the banana plate on the dual models.

[Webtroll]

It also provides a ground connection between the pots and some shielding, plus it's stronger than the wood around it. Other than that I can't imagine it does much more than look "blingy."

[TimWilson]

Yep, you're right: it's an HH4

I'm not a super physical player, so I'm not too concerned about the sacrifice in strength around the pots. But if it's gonna buzz and hum like a stoned bumblebee, I guess I should leave it be.