The choice to drop USB for Phono stage isn't so much an issue for prospective buyers. But naming it V2 where they take away what could be a vital feature for some is. All they needed to do was to differentiate between the two naming one USB and the other Phono.
Nad of course have the right to change the specs. What I find disappointing is that the WHF review states it has the same inputs as the original apart from the fact it has a phono connection. It does list the inputs but nowhere says "usb" as either an inclusion or an ommision. If you read fast you may think its like the first one plus a phono input. Just my little unimportant rant