DV Info Net - Test and shoot weekend/need advice

Greetings!

I'm exploring the capabilities of this unit especially the hi def aspects and have some questions.

1) This may be wild, but I’ll just throw this concept out there. Is it possible to record live in HDV to tape & at the same time “export” a SD feed out to a video mixer? It makes sense if you knew why I asked that question. It actually fits a need.

2) How do I export to an DV .avi file from a onboard tape shot in HD to my computer? Anotherwords, how easy is it to down-convert from HD and export to a computer in SD? Is software better or should I do an internal hardware conversion within the A1? All options are on the table at this stage. A quality result is goal #1.

3) What settings are best to shoot live fireworks? Any advice? May try it very soon.

4) How does one optimize the onboard mikes audio performance? Earlier today was only my 2nd full service shoot in HD and the audio was disappointing. I thought my GL-2’s audio from the very same spot last week sounded much better & that doesn’t make sense to me.

5)What mode should I be shooting given my usage and venue? 60i or 30f? It’s in a church sanctuary with some movement but not a whole lot as the subjects are mostly stationary. What are the pros and cons of each and what type of events is each mode best suited for?

Thanks in advance for you participation.

Happy 4th to everyone!