Pre-amp/equalizer installation in steel body guitar

[truckerdave]

I have a Dean steel body guitar that i wanted to install a Highlander pickup in, but instead of using the external preamp i wanted to use a internal top of guitar mounted box like comes in new acoustic guitars. This would allow on board control of volume and tone and it should work if you cut the hole very carefully for the battery box. Has anyone ever done this or am i breaking new ground here? I don't mind cutting a hole in a cheap import but i would like it electrified since it sounds so good.