The first build I did was taking an old ESP neck and putting a FF board on it. http://www.sevenstring.org/forum/sevenstring-guitars/217716-my-very-first-build.html
You can do it, but it takes some work. Check out the overhang on the body. Had to put a big ol' cutaway on it but it came out nicely...
If you go to fretfind2d and use the rough dimensions from the RG8, you can print off a template to stick on your RG and start planning this!
Pretty sure you could probably achieve the tone you're after. It's weird trying to dial them in at first but what you're talking ab is totally possible.
Thanks for the advice, I've already started on getting what I need to get this thing in shape. As for low income, I'm living off what I make from my band (not hard because I live with parents), which is next to none considering I have to drive a few hours to get to my shows.
I have to work on a no income budget but as long as it doesn't cost me over $500 I think it's do-able. I'll look up the prices for these things. Thanks for the advice, I totally forgot that I could just make this one bearable rather than buying a new guitar.