I have been running this DXA-10 with a battery mod so I can attach a 9v walmart lithium ion battery since 2005. Last week, I taped 2 full days at the Wanee without recharging the battery if that answers your questions about battery life.
I think the DXA-10 is perfect for my low profile needs. If it had VU meters it would be the perfect...but I use the meters on my recorders and make adjustments from there.
I had the battery modification done by Beachtek but that's not something they do anymore. I have seen some shots of folks modifying that battery attachment here on TS. Also, try running lithium 9 volts and you should get at least 2-3 hours without having to do the mod but then you are spending a lot on batteries.
M