The Hub

So, like an idiot, I got well into the installation of an Anthem pickup system when I realized that the soundhole braces on this guitar are effing Lincoln Logs. They're easily a quarter inch thick (and feel like basswood). Because the Anthem preamp is designed to straddle the soundhole brace, I can't fit it as-is.

Anybody got any experience with this?

OPTIONS THE CLIENT WOULD NEVER GO FOR (and wouldn't thrill me either):

1. Replace the brace with a properly thin one made of maple, in hopes of retaining the strength-to-weight ratio.

2. Shave down the brace (I worry I'll be weakening one side with catastrophic consequences down the line).

OTHER OPTIONS

1. Tape thickening pieces to the preamp so it straddles the brace. This makes controls harder to reach, but might work.

2. Attempt to return the unit, even thought it's been mostly installed--especially the internal mic.

3. Buy the effing thing off the client and put it in one of my guitars. Have him get something else.

Any other ideas? Any opinions about the ideas I've already had? Thanks loads for any help.