Is the hardware design also open source?

Toradora if you're seeking lighthearted fun and humor.

Joy.

I agree with the aforementioned recommendation. I foolishly made the lamentable mistake of trading my iPod for something else. I should had known it was too good to give up.

This is very subjective. Everyone's perceptions are unique, and of course, their equipment are vastly various. Therefore, I suggest that you conduct your own ABX tests. The answer lies within you.

Orgiastic design? Curvaceous? Heavenly sound? I think I just fell in love with the S9. Does the S stand for Sexy?

How is the sound quality on the Fuze?

I didn't hear much change after a 100 hour burn in with pink noise on my PortaPros. But what really changed my Portapros was the quarter mod.

The best player that meets your criterion is definitely the Fuze. But apparently you haven't been able to find a good deal. Have you tried Buy.com? BHPhoto?

I am not sure if this fits your criteria but consider a Renato. I don't own one, but they may be worth some of your time.

It really comes down to your musical taste. What sound signature are you looking for? I haven't auditioned the headphones you named, but if you want a dark sound signature and a nice portable pair, I highly recommend the venerable Koss Portapros. You can easily find them below 50 dollars.