Russian Tube Preamp, No Return, Here I go again

Yeah, I blew it this time.

I just started a claim via eBay, seller has until 5-6-21. Then eBay gets involved. I will call my credit card company to see how they can help if needed.

I have documented things VERY well, photos, recap of all messages, videos of noise at low/mid/high volumes. I have original undamaged shipping box.
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How did I make this mistake?????

Initially all I wanted was a small tube MM phono eq for my office system.

Saw this. I liked its size to fit on top of or in my bookcase. More inputs: I could also run the R2R tape thru it. Wood ends (I would have replaced with my own thicker wood).

this caught my eye: ... "analogue of the famous M-7 preamplifier from Mr. Hiroyashi Kondo". I checked HK out, impressive ...

Photo of innards: Admit it, a LOT of expensive equipment looks similar inside, nice transformer, alps vol pot, ... yes this is a kit look. Tubes, not a hybrid. Soft start, remote volume ...

Hmm, tubes: I could drag my 1958 Fisher 80z mono blocks out (still can of course).

https://www.google.com/search?q=fisher+80z+amplifier&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS881US881&sxsrf=ALeKk029...

Past luck: JVC big plinth and TT81 from Russian in Canada. Long Russian Tonearm from NewArtVinyl

http://newartvinyl.ru/board/detali_proigryvatelja/tonarm_black_bird12_5_carbon/7-1-0-41

and, I think I discovered, the RISK was part of it.

You win some, you lose some (hopefully not too many).

You don't have to explain anything to paypal if for whatever reason you're not happy with purchase. This is why there is a buyer's protection program. I don't think seller will argue as they can block his account.

The problem is not a nationality of the seller or his country, the problem is equipment. 

You could buy something from reputable designer or brand. 

With the chassis open to view, pick the unit up and give it a good shake. Do you see any parts moving around?  Turn it upside down; does anything hang down or fall out on the floor? I am sure the actual problem is minor and due to something having come loose or a solder joint having weakened during shipment.  If he's honest, I feel bad for the seller.

chackster,

Thanks for your advice as always.

I made my claim through eBay (eBay sold paypal I was told).

Payment was FROM my Chase credit card. I called Chase. They were already aware of the dispute thru eBay, and assure me if seller does not refund, they will credit the charge back to me.