My entire reason for suggesting the Nikon set up is because he was ok with the M43 set up. I have shot with all of these, and for performance and weight, that Z28-400, hits way above the typical super zoom. I added the z8 as an option as it is a worthy competitor to the A1, albeit a bit larger/heavier.
The Z8 is a really oversized camera imo, the fact it has no mechanical shutter either makes the size/weight even more weird imo.
Have you used a Z8 though? its a very old style mirrorless camera which considering its a mirrorless camera is very "clunky" in use/operation. Actually, I would have overlooked the size issue if it was a better camera, ie the evf is nothing special and the noise it makes every time you push the image review button is enough to drive anyone nuts. No wonder they added the "silent-mode", which is all fine and dandy until you realise it reduces the already flaky battery life to not many images at all. Oh, and the screen only flips, although it can flip portrait and landscape.
I have used the z8 and while I prefer the Sony ergonomics and system, there isn't a more capable camera in the market for $3500 (on sale). I loved the time that I had with the z8 and the 28400. I did a walk around the canal in San Antonio and I could capture everything from the band playing in front of me to the geese swimming up the canal and everything in between. It is the ideal bridge set up with the 28400. Add to that the ability to shoot 8k/60p RAW in camera and the RAW works with Davinci without conversion, and you have a great hybrid machine. AND I was able to use both my 24GM and 50GM with an adapter so I don't lose my glass investment.
Honestly, if ever I could have been less impressed with a modern mirrorless camera the Z8 would be it, it feels like a first generation attempt from a dslr manufacturer who has not fully committed to mirrorless, ie what I'd expect from Pentax if they ever made a mirrorless camera with an evf. To think people are buying and enjoying the Z8 makes me question my sanity! Compared to the a1 mki never mind the mkii it really is something you would need to test over a full week to see if you can cope with its design/ergo, I think anyone with an a1 would find it a huge downgrade with extra weight and no real benefits. Sure Nikon has some great glass, including the very light 400 4.5, but it has to be a complete package and currently the Z8 would not be my first choice of mirrorless body.
No need to question your sanity, but pay attention to why others may like the z8. It is NOT for everyone, and the z9 is too big even for my big hamfisted hands, but there is almost nothing I can't do with the z8 if I add a flash and/or a tripod to the setup. But really it is the 28-400 t and ability to keep my good Sony glass hat floats my boat.
