Well I didn't expect that!
that's more like the cost of a new mid range notebook
Do you have any other suggestion.
Special about what? iPod?
there is nothing special about the iPod.
Check out FiiO X3. Initially it had some firmware issues. I hope it may have resolved now.
FiiO X3 DAP Portable Digital Audio Player
or
If you are fond of BBE Eq then see if any Cowon player impresses you.