Axim X30 audio sound for recorded books

[Purl]

I've been lurking a while trying to decide whether I can justify purchasing an Axim x30 to use with Audible.com. My bro-in-law is trying to steer me towards an iPod, but i don't listen to that much music. I also want to use this as an opportunity to purchase my first PDA. Can't say it's about need right now. I'd like the ability to take notes & keep my appt./address book, etc. all in one place.

SO, my question: can someone speak in laymen's terms to how good the sound quality is? I don't hear well & currently listen to recorded books on tape on a Sony walkmen that allows me to turn up the treble & turn down the base. I use the smallest ear bud headphones that i can get by with because anything bigger (& presumably better in quality) hurts my ears.

Are there controls to adjust sound quality in the software somewhere? Perhaps there is software out there I can purchase that will do this? Can anyone else speak to how good the sound quality is for recorded books? I don't need anything fancy, but would feel more comfortable if I had a modicum of control over this & right now I can't tell.
thanks
purl