Hi!
From ur post, I'm just gathering you want to go OKM IIR > A3 > Archos Gmini 400/402
Well, just for the record, there is Hi-MD now, so you can now record pcm wav at 16/44.1 w/o problem
in that format. Thought the MZ-M100 looks kinda peach. As for storing jpegs from camera, ya, the gmini
would be good.
Now to answer ur questions:
1. The Gmini and OKMs shld work fine. However, do note that when you change the Gmini's recording
level, its only digital attenuation and not gain. Hence, unless ur music is real loud, your levels are going to
be too low, requiring much post production normalization and volume boost. Hence, if U buy the Gmini,
do consider getting a preamp as well, like I did. The A3 is not a preamp, its more like a battery box
to power ur mics, with no gain adjustment.
2. 400 has a CF card reader to allow you to transfer files. 402 is instead a USB host instead of a CF
card reader. That's the only difference.
3. If you're doing taping, consider getting a new adaptor for the line-in. The stock is just too clunky
and falls off easily if moved. Get this from SoundProfessionals:
http://www.soundprofessionals.com/cgi-bin/gold/item/SP-ARCHOS-GMINI-CABLE4. Edirol R-1? Iriver iHP120?
5. Never experienced it.. Of course, pls dun shake it vigorously.
6. I got around 5 hrs, some guys got it at 8. If U want to do festival..consider constructing
a battery module.
Good Luck!