To clarify: the input on the iRiver labeled Line-in can be used with mics as can any line level inputs if your mics output a high enough signal. But its self noise is a problem if you add much gain so thats why Brian recommended using the AD-20. The mic in jack on the R-09 provides much more gain than line in so the battery box is not as needed.
Yes, I was aware of this, and this why I never doubted Brian's recommendation, I even liked it a lot! since I always liked the idea of being able to use a HD player to be my recorder, and pariticularily find the iriver/Rockbox story very attractive.
But I am a bit weary of the bulk of the AD-20, so in case the preamp and A/D of the R-09 are as or almost as quiet as those of the AD-20 I'd prefer the R-09 for being smaller, lighter and easier to use.
I am very surprised that you attest your sample recordings SP-CMC4 > battery box > iriver to create 'inaudible noise even at max gain'. That makes me very excited and I can't wait for the H120 to arrive to try it out with my AT822.
You could make a 2 wire battery box, just need to connect the correct wires and it would not lower the gain.
I will have to find out just how to connect them correctly...
But I may not be able to use a battery box with my mic. though.. In the specs of the AT822, it says:
Warning: The AT822 is designed for battery operation only. Do not attempt to use when phantom power is present. Possible damage to the microphone may result.
hm..any way around? Would 9 Volts really harm the AT822 or should I give it a try? Has anybody done that before?
Of course the AD-20 would ensure very low noise, but you even give me hope that the iriver, if using a battery box, could be 'quiet' enough. I suppose that using an external preamp should even be better, though it must be small, inexpensive or self made, otherwise the AD-20 really would make more sense after all.