The other way to view desire for most compact 2-piece outfit is from a system perspective of mic model + deck model
working together to allow a two piece package.
While some mics do work at lower <4 volt deck supplied mic power, performance is limited if mic really needs >5 volts powering to avoid distortions. But most decks delivering 5 volts or higher mic power are either large, and/or have powering limitations of not running long or reliably on internal batteries needing external battery solutions, so do not work for most recordists as desired 2-piece outfit.
Since starting the mic business in 1986 using cassette portables, it soon became apparent with the advent of more power hungry DAT recorders that a 'system' of deck+mic knowledge from the sellers perspective is needed for mic customers to be fully satisfied with the performance and ease of use of the total recording system. Even so, most mic manufacturers to NOT consider what mic buyers need to have for making a 'working' recording package. And this is one of the main differences in how I do business at Sonic Studios offering specific mic+deck system advice for having everything work together as required for a customer's specific interests.
Having said this, consider one of the only low profile mic+deck recording outfits working without compromises of mic performance, or need for external mic or deck powering.
These systems are fully displayed
using different models of deck with my DSM mics in my retail section thread at:
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=83254.0;all