I did a little experiment to see what would happen if I decreased the density of my Dark Combs™. I modified the design to make the non-essential parts lighter (i.e. not there.)
Results: The combs are lighter but there is no difference in tone or power.
This experiment was not a failure despite not having created a better comb. The fact that less density in the non-participating areas doesn't contribute to tone, volume or performance is a good thing to have found out.
I won't be making more of these "holey" combs; I've found out what I need to know from doing this. I hope others find this info useful too.