Looking for a DAP w/ a line out at least equal in SQ if not better than the E07K or an Ipod Classic 7th Gen ?

[imackler]

Hey all! 
 
I've got a modest set up currently. E07K>E09K>HD600. And yet, for a couple reasons, a portable dap would probably be better than messing around with my work laptop. When I moved to this set up, I got rid of my Ipod Classic, expecting a smoother transition than I've had. 

Anyways, I'd hate to take a step backward in getting a dap. Are there any daps you'd recommend in the under $250 or so category (which leaves some room to buy a 128gb card) which have a better dac than both the E07K and Ipod Classic? Obvious contenders are the X1, X3, D50, etc. 
 
Thanks! 

 

[Myxypyzlyk]

Hey- I use an X1 with the E07k to ath-m50x with Shure840 earpads and it sounds great. But then I'm on an extremely small budget. I think so far the X1 is an ipod killer (don't think I'll bother with them anymore). The X1 does everything I need...