"strange goings on"
I believe your anecdote, but your hyperbolic headline and conclusion seem oddly out of proportion.
If there are others who have had similar experiences, I haven't seen them reported on this, or other forums. In fact, Alvin Chee of Vinshine has a well documented history of being very responsive to any issues, including answering questions directly on forums. So your experience is undoubtedly anomalous.
Perhaps Denafrips has been adversely impacted by the well-reported chip shortage, which would explain uncommon shipping delays. The lack of communication that you report is disappointing, but again, I see no evidence that it is remotely typical.
