Acceptable to ask seller for option to return a component?

even if you return something on Crutchfield on Amazon, it's not without a lot of costs and consequences, so I am usually very careful with the return option.

Most seasoned buyers on audio forums have a different approach: research the hell out of what I am buying before buying AND/OR if I don't like it, will I be able to resell it at a loss I am willing to accept. 

I learned this early at my own expense and paid dearly. I bought new/open box speakers for $1500 that checked off all the wrong boxes: sounded terrible, had no value on the used market, a sneeze would scratch the veneer, etc. 

certainly agree there is no harm in asking...

There is harm in asking in that I believe many sellers would not sell to you.  If I describe the component as it truly is and safely ship it to a buyer, then the transaction has concluded.  No do overs.  It protects me because I have no idea (or control) as to what happened to the component after it arrived at the buyer's residence.  I guess I could charge you for the return option, but realistically why should I even bother.  Some people might not have the problem I with you asking, but I think most will.

Sure it is OK to ask. It is just as OK to decline.