First up, forget about the Gemini stuff – despite some new product lately I’ve heard nothing indicating better quality out of that brand. Also, it’s good to be aware of pitch resolution, but you’re putting too much weight on it – to be frank, Techs didn’t have that fine of an adjustment. You were always adjusting on the fly. If you’re mixing by ear anyway then that is just part of what you should be used to doing.
If the Numarks cause issue with your workflow then forget about them. Don’t buy a product if you are looking for workarounds before you even purchase.
From Pioneer – you can add the XDJ-1000 to the list too, as well as the CDJ-400. Both those would do what you described.
From Denon – you can add the 2900, 3700, and 3900 to your list. They can all play from USB, and the last two have motorized platters (if you really do like that feeling like Tech 1200s).
Reloop has a new media player out as well. Not sure on pricing but could be worth looking at.
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