I do have basses with front LEDs and since the LEDs are centered they're still not the same as if they'd be located closer to the rim. Yet, I don't like the looks of the displaced front LEDs ? la King Bass, so this is not an option. In any case it was just fooling with an idea. I am sure I can still live with the regular side LEDs solution. Thanks for your test, Larry!
While this would be for a fretless anyways I have already checked with SIMs for the option of illuminated fret lines, but it would be expensive! Also, I would prefer to keep the neck unlined.
As I said, it was just fooling around with different ideas. No problem if they turn out to be bad ideas ...