As for batteries... I have two comments:

Portable music:
Then: Boombox with 8 Alkaline D-cells
Now: Player of choice with an internal rechargeable Li-gel battery.

ENG video cameras:
Then: battery belt of lead acid batteries that make you look like you're diving for sunken treasure.
Now: Lithium ion or Lithium polymer battery pack on the back of the camera.

Bren R.