when I designed the Schleußig module, I asked people (muffwiggler) what they think about my prototype (which looked a lot like this) and the suggestions I received went into the final layout I have now: connectors on top, buttons below.
I am happy I asked before bringing it into the market

-- lpzw_modules

Happened to test multiple configurations as well.
Works very well in this configuration and no issues reaching the mute buttons - happy to hear you came up with your own design... none of them are perfect.


New Stereo multimode VCA from Steady State Fate, coming soon