While I voted for the M1, I have to say that for somebody starting out I am very hesitant to recommend DAT. As much as it pains me to say this, DAT is on it's last legs. Partly due to new technology and partly due to manufacturers no longer seeing a lot of value in them. If they last another 5 years I'd be surprised. That's not to say I won't be running my recorders/players until they die, but with all the new technology right around the bend, it would shock me if DATs still out numbered other recording media at shows.
Laptops? While I can pick up a laptop cheaper than most since I work for a computer manufacturer, I still can't see myself taking one to a show (at least not to the clubs where I tape a large portion of my stuff).
The thing I'm really waiting for is a nice portable hard drive recorder that won't break the bank. I honestly think we'll start seeing these things come down in price over the next couple of years.
Personally, we somebody new wants to get into taping, I initially recommend they use a MD recorder and patch out of folks. This way they can get a good idea of the gear used, and they don't have to mortgage the house to get into taping (OK, most don't own a house, but...). If somebody just wants to dive head first into taping and really wants a DAT deck, then I'll recommend the M1. But, as I see it the writing is on the wall.
Wayne