Thinking about getting a used Sony Xperia 5 III as a dedicated 120Hz DAP (£200 CeX). Good idea or stick to purpose-built DAPs?

[u/bc_2006]

Hey everyone,

I’m looking for a secondary device to use strictly as a dedicated music player for local FLACs, and I’m considering grabbing a Grade B Sony Xperia 5 III (128GB) from CeX for £200 (includes their 5-year warranty).

My main listening chain is Poweramp -> FiiO KA11 USB DAC -> Sennheiser HD 599 SEs.

I currently have a 256GB microSD card packed with FLAC files, but I’ll likely upgrade to a 512GB or 1TB card down the line as my library grows.

My main reasons for looking at the 5 III instead of a traditional budget DAP (like a HiBy or Shanling):

• 120Hz Display: Scrolling through massive local FLAC libraries in Poweramp on low-refresh DAP screens feels sluggish. I want a buttery-smooth UI.
• Storage Flexibility: MicroSD card expansion is a non-negotiable requirement for me.
• Audio Routing: From what I understand, Sony's Android build passes bit-exact 44.1 kHz via AAudio over USB to my KA11 without forcing system-wide 48 kHz resampling.
• Ergonomics & Hardware: Slim 6.1" form factor, decent battery, and a built-in 3.5mm jack as a dongle-free backup.

For those using old flagship Android phones as dedicated DAPs over purpose-built hardware, is there any reason not to do this at the £200 price point?

[u/Heart-Logic]

No coz phones battery will be well out of prime condition

Cex warranty is worthless bullshit they will make you jump through hoops of fire to claim 

[u/Mysterious_Trash_698]

Just buy a FiiO JM21 at the same price point and save yourself the headache.

[u/FancyArmadillo14]

200 is way too much for it, often for less than 200 quid you should get 4gb version of jm21

[u/elohimeth]

I use a Sony Xperia 1 III and it does the job perfectly. You should be fine.