I purchased this player to upgrade my Fiio X3 and the Colorfly C4. Both good players in their own rights, but out-shined greatly by the AK240. As one of the most powerful player at the time of purchase (2015) and maybe today (2017), the AK240 packs punch, quality and great UI into a relatively small package--at a price.
Of course, Iriver products are known to be quite costly, but the 2,500 price tag will probably shy off most listeners. Is it worth it? I would say so. The sound quality and UI are both fabulous, and the battery life will last you for the day unless your earphones are glued to your ears.
At the time of this review, however, AK have already launched their new flagship--the AK380, which comes at an even heftier price tag. For now, the "budget" AK240 still holds its own as one of the best players in the market.
Bottom Line
The AK240 is a luxury product and doesn't disguise as otherwise. Then again, all Audiophile products are somewhat luxury products. If you love audio and price is (somewhat) an object, then go for the AK240. If you have really deep pockets, the AK380 is just waiting for you in some Amazon warehouse.