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I've changed ereaders several times over the last few years. If you can deal with needing a light the Sony eReader is beautiful to see in action. Like you though I really like having a backlight. I've had good luck in going used off ebay and using a monochrome PPC. There are only two models out there that I know of and they're both getting really long in the tooth. The Compaq Ipaq 3100 series and the far more rare Intermec PPC Model 70. I've owned both. The Compaq is far easier to get parts for but the Intermec is a better design. But realistically you'd be buying a 5-7 year old unit to replace a 3 year old unit and that's just asking for more trouble than you probably want.
Time to wax nostalgic. The Ipaq and Intermec both support PPC2k2 if you had the right model which let you run current lit DRM books, Mobi books, ereader books, and the current Acrobat DRM. The next generation of DRM will finally leave it behind I think but for versatility I don't think anything could touch them. Sadly 2k2 was the last version of PPC to support a monochrome screen and with it went fantastic battery life and a reverse backlight that was a joy to read with.
I'm really enjoying the Sony eReader so far (grabbed it on the 50 dollar deal) and I can see it replacing my Intermec but more because the Intermec is so darn old (battery failing and the plastic of the case is literally disintegrating) then because it is a much better reader. The Sony screen is gorgeous but for me the unit is a little big. I liked being able to drop my reader in my back pocket and go and the lack of back lighting definitely takes getting used to.
So my far too long and rambling answer to your question is if you can snag a cheap eReader I'd try that. If you get it on the deal through the Sony card you can always eBay it off for a profit if you hate it. That's my plan at least.
Cheers!
Rolard
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