When I had Mulkvad my speed test would go from about 335mbit to like 327mbit when connected to a somewhat close server.

Connected to servers across the ocean it’d be like 310.

They got a money-back guarantee if you don’t pay with something completely anonymous like cash in the mail.

I’m leaning toward a short somewhere, since you said the PSU starts up with the paperclip but not when plugged in to the board.

As a renter, I don’t pity the mere $200 increase you’re dealing with.