[faultfracture]

I've recently been introduced to the world of modern DAP's by Fiio's X5iii, I'm coming from what seems like ancient technology in comparison... That being said, what's a logical upgrade from this unit other than the obvious Fiio X7? Thanks,

 

[Me x3]

I've enjoyed the X5 3rd Gen very much (for almost a year) then upgraded to X7 Mark II with AM2A module.
It retains all the good things of the X5 3rd Gen including its character and improves on every way (soundstage, transparency, resolution).
It's also a faster player due to having more RAM.

FiiO X7 Mark II with AM3A module (stock module) has more of a reference type of sound relative to the warmer and somehow lively X5 3rd Gen.
AM3A is very precise and considerably more open sounding than X5 3rd Gen in my experience.

 

[faultfracture]

bump

 

[yanaginagi]

At that price range the aune m1s is a better choice than x5iii or x7 regarding sound quality.
For an upgrade, you can look at ibasso dx150 or the hiby r6.

 

[FangJoker]

bump

What's your budget? There's lots of daps out there in all sorts of price ranges.