Epiphone Les Paul Special II - EMG / Active Pickup Battery Expansion & Cavity Cover (DarkR Edition)

Epiphone Les Paul Special II - Active Pickup Battery Expansion & Cavity Cover (V2 Improved)

If you've tried to install EMG or Fishman Fluence pickups into a Special II, you’ve faced the hard truth: the control cavity has absolutely zero space for a 9V battery.

This custom-designed battery bay and cover set replaces the original flat plate, creating a modular housing for your power source and charging electronics while keeping everything organized and accessible—without any wood routing.

UPDATE: V2 is here!

Based on real-world testing, I have completely redesigned the mounting system to eliminate any wobble and ensure a rock-solid fit.

• Integrated Rails: The rails are now part of the cavity cover's main body, providing maximum structural integrity.

• Precision Slots: The battery housing now features internal slots that slide onto these reinforced rails.

• Backward Compatibility: The V2 Cover is compatible with V1 rails! However, please note that the V1 Cover will not fit the new V2 rails.

Why this is a "Must-Have" for Special II owners:

• Tailored Fit: Specifically designed for the unique geometry of the Epiphone Special II cavity.

• No Wood Modification: Keep your guitar's body intact. This system uses the existing screw holes and cavity shape.

• DarkR Quick-Access System: Ditch the screwdriver; the cover features a "click-lock" for instant access.

• Integrated Charging Station: Built for 9V-sized USB-C rechargeable Li-ion batteries.

• Smart Feedback: The USB-C port area is designed to allow the internal charging LED (Red/Green) to be visibl.

• Pro Toggle Mount: Includes a dedicated mount for a micro-switch (to isolate "Play" and "Charge" modes) with integrated M2 threads.

File Structure:

1. V2 Cavity Base (Fixed part / Rail system):

   • DarkR_LP_Special_II_Base_V2_with_Switch.stl: Integrated toggle switch slot & M2 screw mounts + recessed functional icons (⚡ / ▶).

   • DarkR_LP_Special_II_Base_V2_Blank.stl: For those who want to use a different switching method.

2. V2 Slide-on Cover (The "DarkR" branded lid):

   • DarkR_LP_Special_II_Cover_V2_with_USB.stl: Precision USB-C cutout.

   • DarkR_LP_Special_II_Cover_V2_Blank.stl: No USB-C cutout version.

3. All-in-One Packages:

   • DarkR_LP_Special_II_Full_Set_V2_Holes.3mf: Ready-to-print project with my optimized settings.

   • DarkR_LP_Special_II_Full_Set_V2_Blank.3mf: Minimalist version.

4. Master Project File:

   • DarkR_LP_Special_II_Master_Project_V2.step: The full CAD assembly. Essential if you want to modify the internal layout or logo.

Note: All files for the V1 are available in the Download section in the "All files for V1" folder!

Printing & Assembly Tips:

• Material: PETG is required. It provides the necessary "springiness" for the click-lock and rails.

• Walls: 3-4 perimeters for structural integrity. (ASA and ABS could work to, but its not tested) Avoid PLA if you play many gigs or if you have to leave your guitar in a hot car, for example.

• Layer Height: 0.2mm is crucial for perfect rail tolerances.

• Assembly: The base is designed for M2 screws to secure the switch. The fit is tight, so the screws will "self-tap" into the PETG for a rock-solid mount.