Luxman Knockoffs or Counterfeits?

I purchased a $3.50 turntable mat from eBay once.  It was coming from Japan.  Not a high-ticket item so I figured I would spend a small amount of money to see what it was about.  I never received the item seller said he shipped it but it never arrived.  I communicated with the seller via messaging through eBay trying to get the issue resolved.  After 6 weeks I gave up tried to file a claim with eBay and was told too bad.  I provided them with the correspondence, and I was told that you have to file a claim within 30 days of the purchase date.  So no way would I recommend someone purchase a high-ticket item from eBay particularly one that can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to arrive.

Just sayin.

It's to my understanding Luxman USA will not do any work on these offshore purchased units as well.

I've bought a lot of camera equipment from Japanese eBay sellers and never had a problem, so if the audio gear I wanted was available from there, I'd probably do it, although the step-down transformer is a separate issue (but the t-former will clean up your electrics)

@audiojerry 

I've noticed the eBay listings from different sellers with the same items and pictures with different prices.

My suspicion has always been that these are used items for sale in a Japanese shop and the various sellers are trying to market them to overseas customers.

I've noticed it with instruments, audio gear, etc.

So it's worth considering you're probably not dealing with a retailer or even the original owner familiar with the condition of the product and there's little recourse if something goes wrong. The post a bit further up really points out the pitfalls of buying a used amp from overseas. I also think it's a big risk. I would rather wait for the gear to show up domestically.

FYI: I purchased an L-590AX II from a very fine gentleman who has participated in this forum.

Thanks to all for you helpful insights and advice.