r1ch: a small, supportable product is only possible, when there are no dependencies. stop arguing, mikrotik will not change this. I am glad, that we as customers have small firmware packages.
I would prefer modular port cards. for example the box should have the rj45 mgt port, a serial one and two sfp+ combo ports by default everything else should be on the extensions cards. you need another 8 copper ports? buy a card. qsfp for the router on a stick configuration? select the right extens...