The problem is that Sideshow isn't changing their QC procedure, that's exactly why their reputation is tanking. As KingB alluded to, getting a good end product from Sideshow is dependent on what factory produced it - a complete crap shoot.
Almost every single Marvel Iron Man with Sideshow's name on it since 2009 has been a QC mess in one way or another:
- Mk 3 bust: paint peeling, dead LED's
- Mk 6 Maquette: paint peeling off the chin, dead LED's, misaligned faceplates
- Mk 6 Bust: Upside down arc reactor (really!?
), horrible paint app, mismatched red paint on head and torso, broken parts, LED shining through the entire helmet
- Mk 7 bust: horrible paint app, dead LED's on arrival
- Mk 7 LSF: horrible paint app, dead LED's on arrival, foot pegs don't fit or sit flush, magnets too weak and parts fall to the floor and get damaged and/or break - and this is their top of the line $2000-$2500 Iron Man product mind you
- Iron Patriot Maquette: horrible paint app, horrible portrait
Only three releases since 2009 have shipped without a hitch for the most part: Hulkbuster Comiquette, War Machine Maquette & War machine bust.
Over half a decade later we're still seeing the same horrendous QC release after release and having the same conversations. One would think that a 20 year industry giant would have the resources to address and fix the problems that plague all their releases when start up companies and less established companies have it figured out. One would think that a 20 year industry giant would care about the problems that plague all their releases from the Marvel IM line by recalling them, making changes at their factory/factories and re-releasing an awesome product for their loyal customers to enjoy after years waiting. Offering $45-$60 credit to keep a QC-ridden end product and sweep it under the rug is historically not awesome.
The logical conclusion is that Sideshow simply doesn't care.