Well, in the low profile / "actives" you've got some choices, all less expensive than the DPAs:
~used price | description
$1,100 | MBHO 603A w/ KAx caps
$1,400 | Neumann KM100s w/ AKx caps
$2,200 | Schoeps CMC6 bodies with MKx caps
$?,??? | AKG 460s with CK? caps (though I understand the active cables are tough to come by)
Even if the mics you're looking at don't have actives available, you could run any number of caps with a
JK Labs setup.
I'm sure I've forgotten some, but there's a starter list.
As for being obtrusive, if the band and venue is cool with it, don't sweat it. I felt a little self-conscious about being obtrusive initially but have gotten over it. Another way to run less obtrusively: clamp and extension bar. Clamp to a railing, chair, lamp, beam, all kinds of options depending on the venue.