Please help me choose a new DAP!

[hifi1000]

Hello,
I'm trying to decide between the Fiio X5 2nd gen, and the AK Jr. I care most about sound quality and physical build. Having a digital line out would be a big plus; I'm not sure of the Jr. let's you use the 3.5mm jack as a diginal line out, or if its "line out mode" just boosts the volume. Other recommendations would be welcome, but I'm mostly looking for people's experience with these two. I also considered the new AK70, but I'm not a fan of android and the apps/bloat the comes with it.
 
Thank you!

 

[Kadsura]

I am not familiar with either of the models you mention, however FWIW, I have owned a Fiio X1 for nearly a year now, and am extremely satisfied with it. The sound quality, functionality, and build quality are amazing for 100$! I don't think you will be disappointed with a Fiio product. I currently have a 128 GB card which holds approx. 400+ CDs worth in FLAC format. This is more than enough for me for now. If I find myself wanting more capacity I would very likely buy the X5.  

 

[EagleWings]

I am not going to recommend any particular device, but let me just spill out what I know so that you can decide based on your needs and requirements.
 
I own a Fiio X3ii, owned an X5ii briefly.  Both X3ii and X5ii represent a good value for the price you pay. If you will be using the device as a standalone player, X5ii is really good especially now that Fiio dropped the price of X5ii down to $300. The difference in SQ between X3ii and X5ii is noticeable when you listen to it closely.
 
If you are going to be using the device just as a transport for a DAC, both X3ii and X5ii are very reliable devices and the battery seems to last for more than 20Hrs when they do digital out. If you will not be needing 2 SD Cards and will be using it strictly for transport, X3ii has better ergonomics because of curved edges and lighter weight.
 
I have not tried the AK Jr, but I believe it cannot do a Digital Out. I could be wrong though.
 
AK70 uses the same locked down android version as the rest of the AK DAPs (AK100ii,120ii,240,300,320,380). It is not a full fledged android like what you see on an android phone or tablet. It is a very skinny version with just the music player. So it does not come with any bloatware or any unnecessary apps/services that is going to run in the background to drain the battery. The UI is fantastic (had a chance to try an AK380 and definitely like the UI). Try watching the video below to get an idea. AK70 will use a similar android version. The one difference is, AK70's digital out is through USB, while the rest of the models (100,120...380) use an Optical medium for digital out. I'd personally prefer digital out through optical over USB.
 
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ak120ii
 
iBasso DX80 is also one other option you can consider.

 

[hifi1000]

I went with the X5ii. As you mentioned, I'll probably be using it as a transport for another DAC in the long run, and the sound quality is just fine in the meantime. Has all the other features I want, such as a digital line out, plenty of storage capacity, and simple, bloatware-free firmware that gets the job done. Thanks!