I'm planning on upgrading my ipod classic and so far have short listed the AK120, AK100 mk2 & Sony ZX1 in order of preference. I'm concerned about the ZX1's reported brightness because my iems have treble spikes so the AK's smoother sound signature would be suitable from what I've read. I might be able to get a used AK120 for the same price as a new AK100 mk2 so AK120 is on top of the list.
I've read this thread and I'm concerned that a headfier has commented that 320k mp3 does not sound good on the AK120. Does this apply to all 320k mp3 or only the ones that are poorly recorded? Does the AK120 reveal poorly produced mp3 and enhance well produced mp3?
Another headfier commented that the difference between mp3 and flac on the AK120 is only noticeable with critical listening so I'm not sure whose opinion is accurate.
I have a collection of mp3s and some 16/44 wav. I do not foresee the music that I listen to being released as highres in the near future but I can easily re-purchase the mp3s in wav 16/44 format. In this case is it worth investing in a quality DAP to upgrade what I have at the moment?
Also, iriver's site states that general warranty is 1 year and is non-transferable so if I purchase a used AK120 that becomes faulty I would be unable to claim a warranty repair. Apart from the firmware issues, is the player reliable?
Appreciate any feedback.