Which mics work best with DAT field recorders? I briefly used a borrowed Audio Technica (can't remember the model) powered by a AA battery. It sounded wonderful but was very susceptible to handling noise. Since then I've used an RE-50 but that doesn't sound as good. Is there an omnidirectional mic you recommended specifically?

If the AT mike you used was the ATM10a, that's generally what I recommend for the D8. It's the only omni (short of phantom powered models) that has enough output power to adequately drive the D8. The RE50 and other dynamics (including the Beyer M58s which NPR issues to its reporters) don't have enough output level to fully drive the D8 in a quiet interview.

If you're having handling noise problems, consider buying a foam bike handlebar grip. It will slide onto the mike nicely, and makes for a more comfortable grip surface, so less impetus to move your hand around on the mike.

If the AT you used was something other than an ATM10 or 10a, then it wasn't an omni...and that might explain your handling noise problems.