better recorder or better microphone-dilemma

["Jacek Malanka" jacek_malanka]

Hi,
What do you think is better - buy marantz pmd 661 + rode ntg-2 or buy cheaper 
recorder like olympus LS-12 or sony PCM 10 but with Sennheiser K6/ME67. Which 
solution will give me better sound quality? I might add that I am most 
interested in recording owls. In first line owls and then other birds. I think 
the first solution is better because of xlr (in the future I could change the 
microphone) , but if you have other experiences, suggestions and tips then 
correct me.
Jacek