so I have an update to my camera saga (
>>3906875)
I got in an XF 18mm f/2 that I bought online. it seems that the issue with the camera not being able to focus was definitely caused by the 28mm f/2.8 kit lens, because the camera can focus the 18mm without issue. so the camera still has the issue with the front command dial, but that doesn't matter much since I can at least use the fucking camera now until B&H gets more in stock and ships me a replacement.
here are some test snapshits. pleasing colors on these jpegs. kind of annoying that I can't use the raws with capture one pro because I have 20 and they don't have support for this camera included, so I'd have to spend hundos on their latest version to get support. stupid software companies.