I use a sony ECM-717 mic in combination with the older sony md recorder MZ-R35 and I get great results out of this combination. I will gladly send an mp3 sample to anyone who is interested.
The only negative thing about the recorder is that you can't adjust the record level while recording. After a while of practice you get used to this and you know which level to set in advance. The Mic sensivity switch is great!
Take care,
Dirk