how do you like the mke2?
I like the MKE2 a lot. Note that you can get two versions, MKE-2-4, the two wire version, and MKE-2-5, the three wire version. I've got the latter and use a 3-wire connection (+9V on one wire, and a 10K resistor between the second wire and shield, take the audio off the second wire). Three wire gives a lot more tolerance to loud sounds.
The mics sound bright and clear. They are certainly better than than Panasonics. Maybe a little bright, but I can live with that. They are very clear. I can't compare to the DPA406x. I would love to try, but I don't have that kind of money. I got lucky and found the MKE2 for $52 each (new) on Ebay! If I had to pay retail ($200 or so each), I'd probably go for the DPA.
The other option is the AT899 that are $100 at SoundProfessional (look in the clearence section). I think those are probably a good deal, but I have not tried them.
Richard