Neither can I, and I am 52 years old and have so-called "rock 'n roll" ears from over 30 years in the music and concert sound mixing business (although I have and still do take extreme precautions when working, but not behind the mixing console). Having said that, I use a Jawbone bluetooth most of the time with mine because of carpal tunnel syndrome in my hands and wrists. But I hold the phone at night at home, so I know my earpiece if still working fine.
I would take your X back to the store and compare it to a phone or two in the store (call something automated like Verizon's customer service and listen to the menu prompts on each phone). I'm thinking that yours has a faulty earpiece.
Of course, I'm ASSuming that your ears are in good shape. I mention this ony because for years, my Dad, a fine trumpet player, composer and arranger, but badly technologically-challenged, complained about every phone he owned not being loud enough for him to hear the caller. One day I said "Dad, try yer other ear". He did and it was like watching a light bulb go off. He could hear his phone MUCH better. Later that week, we went to his doctor, who found the problem ear clogged with earwax.
Of all people to not recognize a hearing problem!...
Hope this helps,
Geri O
