Surface mount components are perfectly diy-able. We will have to disagree. Now if it had surface mount with pads under the device then it isn't, but e.g. a surface mount resistor, capacitor, transistor is easy enough with a suitable tip on a soldering iron. Might need a magnifying glass and steady hands as stuff gets smaller but nothing there that should scare a diy-er!
Besides both modules are modules, not kits, just solder a couple of wires on and bolt them down.
I understand the point you are making about future ease of repairs but that is a warrantee away and I think you are wrong to suggest surface mount = unrepairable.
I will await MJS to comment on what WitchHat are up to, but my impression was they have been working on their own regulator solutions.
EDIT: perhaps i am reading too much into it but this post suggested to me they are doing their on pre-tracking regulator https://www.pinkfishmedia.net/forum/threads/hicap-v-apx.235468/#post-3851496
Besides both modules are modules, not kits, just solder a couple of wires on and bolt them down.
I understand the point you are making about future ease of repairs but that is a warrantee away and I think you are wrong to suggest surface mount = unrepairable.
I will await MJS to comment on what WitchHat are up to, but my impression was they have been working on their own regulator solutions.
EDIT: perhaps i am reading too much into it but this post suggested to me they are doing their on pre-tracking regulator https://www.pinkfishmedia.net/forum/threads/hicap-v-apx.235468/#post-3851496