Chiming in on the discussion I have missed:
I haven't bought anything just yet.
I was looking at those AKGs since they were such a deal, but not having heard any recordings using them I was hesitant to move on them, especially without a means to power them.
Tascam DR-60D is something I looked at, but the very short battery runtimes are what kills that option for me. I don't want to deal with external batteries. The Zoom H5/6 seems more attractive in the 4+ channel realm, especially since I have very positive direct experience with the H6 preamps and great battery life running 4 channels of 48V mics. My experience with Zoom's long-term reliablity has been much less positive although I thought the H6 was a big step up in build quality from their past products. But - my M10 is a solid performer right now, and I don't see any of these other decks actually making a better recording - they would just be a means to an end having the phantom powered inputs. But it would save me a little money that I could put towards mics or other things.
The Tinybox would take up most of my budget, but it seems to have a lot going for it in terms of quality and versatitliy. I also appreciate Jon being honest and straightforward about his products. If I could afford it, I would certainly go the actives route, as it seems the best of all possible worlds. Side question - would a tinybox configured for phantom also be able to run actives with no internal modifications, just the necessary cable adaptors?
I'm taking my time with this, because for me, this is quite a lot of cash to lay down on recording equipment. Thanks again to all.