But, just in case you are still looking for an answer to your original question about small digital recorders... here are 2 very good ones, and rather pricey.
Fostex FR2
and Sound Devices 722

These both have XLR jacks for microphones I do believe, and very quiet preamps.

For a cheaper route, the Edirol R-01 or R-09 is probably your best bet. Although these don't have XLR jacks, but rather 8th inch mini jacks, and their preamps are a bit noisier. However, they both have line in jacks so you could hook up an external quieter preamp if you need to.