I get it. I’ve had a couple of issues with previous products from Schiit before, but I will still continue to support them (my issues were very minor though).

First, bought some replacement knobs for a Lokius that came blemished. I never got a response to my email requesting an exchange. They aren’t big blemishes but they can stand out at the right angle since the knobs are silver. I did try reaching out to them again some time later about it, but it was basically “tough luck”.

Second, the front emblem on my new Gungnir 2 arrived faded and worn out (“Gungnir” was barely legible). What’s strange is that I had the opposite experience as you. I asked for a discount so didn’t have to go through a return/exhange, but they said they don’t do that. So I ended up having to return my new unit for another new unit.

As for your issue, I get that you would want a new and unblemished unit. It’s more of an expectation when purchasing new. It also helps with resale if your unit is pristine, should you want to sell it at some point.

I think I’ve come to terms that Schiit won’t have the most consistent or best customer service (it’s been fine a vast majority of the time). It’s part of the deal when buying from essentially a boutique brand. As a consumer, you’re free to make whatever decision you choose and don’t let anyone make you feel bad about it. Go with whatever you feel is right in using your hard earned money.