Actually, the problem lies more with iRiver, I suspect.
I bought an original AK120 that definitely has firmware problems. For example, when attempting to make a playlist, the AK120 only recognizes file names through the range A – G. Yet it'll individually play tracks outside of that range.
Attempts to reach iRiver through various means, including to their U.S. VP through LinkedIn InMail, have all failed. In nosing around the A&K website, it appears it's all but defunct, in that there have been no upgrades to the site for ages.
Unlike SanDisk with their Sansa line, there is no public forum for A&K units, so attempting to get support through fellow users—including here—has been a bust. I knew in advance that I was paying a ridiculous premium for my unit, as did you, and I suspect that's why you and I seem to be the only owners of these things—hence zero user community input/solutions.