i would also vote for the sony d50. the run times on a set of 4 AA batteries are out of this world. 12+hrs. nothing as far as i know comes close to touching that time. the build is solid and the unit seems to do very well on bench tests. with the built in 4 gig hd and an 8gig memory stick, you can get recording times to match the battery life. it has internal mics, which, tho add to the overall size, will likely rarely be a negative, cause you can record just to them and they will be fine for conversation or some such.
couple this with a pair of CA mics and i imagine you would be good to go. the MTII units have a spotty track record and overseas and out of touch, reliability is mostly likely at the top of the list.
good luck, let us know what you decide. bring a hat.