got a faulty F type, was advised to apply for a tourist Visa - sound OK?

I want to travel to China for a conference. After reading about the Chinese consulate in Los Angeles I decided to not even try to get the entry permit myself and pay a company to do it. All my forms were properly filled out with the correct dates of my travel. I had my invitation letter with the dates of the conference. When I got the "F" type it was effective immediately and would expire before the conference. So I can't use it.

I was told that the consulate would not make any corrections or admit they made a mistake and I would have to apply again. I was advised to apply for a tourist L, as there are fewer restrictions on when I can be in China. So I initially said yes to this, but now I'm having second thoughts. I was planning to shoot video in China with a semi-professional camera. I'm worried that obtaining the wrong type of entry permit could lead to problems for me in China.

What is your advice on what I should do?