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Even with current prices I think single board computers are better positioned as full-fledged audio and video media centers rather than just audio players. A friend of mine is using a Raspberry Pi for just that purpose.
As far as audiobooks are concerned, I think they'd be pretty bulky to be practical. Even with batteries it sounds like they'd be more "luggable" than "portable." I suspect they'd also suffer from the same problem that inexpensive Android tablets have -- relatively unremarkable audio output.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a high-end audio player for high quality music listening, there are still a few options. I have -- and can recommend -- the FiiO X1. I don't think that its software would be especially good for audiobooks, but it does a great job with music. I've got the first gen hardware -- the second gen hardware specs look even better -- all for about $100 at Amazon, etc.
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