I agree with RMosack that string-thru shouldn't add string tension. What it does do is allow for a sharper break angle of the string over the saddle, thereby directing more of the tension of the string down onto the saddle. This downforce holds things together more tightly. Things get even tighter if you use Tele-style barrel saddles, because then the downforce is applied to only half the number of height-adjustment screws. My personal bias is starting to show here. Hipshot makes fine products that anyone should be proud to own, but I'll make a plug for what I think is a neat bridge.

This will continue with the "less metal" thread. I don't know if Tommy likes to cut down on metal mass for his guitars, but it does seem to be part of his rationale for liking vintage truss rods over the double-expanding type. One company that believes "thinner is better" for bridge plates is Glendale, and the plate that would suit you, if you like Tele barrel saddles, is on liquidation:
www.glendaleguitars.com/amshb.jpg
The inexpensive, compensated RS saddles would look pretty rad on it too:
www.rsguitarworks.net/rss...-brass.jpg

I can't quite remember, but I think that people on this board like the intonation they achieve with compensated saddles.