I'm going to continue to recommend the Rode NT4 stereo mic. Runs on
internal 9v battery or standard phantom power. 2 x XLR and stereo
minijack cables included. Along with a portable minidisk recorder
it's the ideal tool for this job.

Yep, minidisc all the way - I reckon on 4 safe hours then change the AA
battery, using a Sony MS907 mic for ordinary stuff or a pair of Superlux
HM8-A through a behringer preamp or a yamaha mixer for anything important