May I suggest adding a rear panel USB port for the new 978. I rarely hook up anything else on my 990 so the rear port is ideal for those with permanent connections.

As an example I use my 990 with a MacBook and a external drive for lossless audio. So for me, no unsightly wires show up front.

With that said having a USB upfront is convenient for those that connect temporary devices.

How about one up front, and for us old angry men, the rear USB too!