squarecell

I have a Stanton SCS.3 set collecting dust in my storage room. That thing has touch “platters” or basically the closest you could get to actual jogwheels without something that actually moves. Friction alone makes trying to scratch on it useless and frustrating not to mention the lack of tactile response.

Denon MC4000 should be on your list.

Myself, I would at the very least add a Z1 to have a crossfader, EQs an an audio interface.

To answer your second question, you can ‘mix’ (i.e. beatmatch) and two songs which are of similar tempo (BPM). Mixing songs in the same key (or close to – see the Camelot wheel) just makes it sound more seamless. But at the end of the day, trusting your ears is always the best way to go (if it sounds good to you – mix it).

As far as easy software, if you’re serious I would take the time to research and learn the software that most appeals to you.

I’d say the easiest software I’ve used is Djay for Mac (but I find it too limiting for pro use), followed by Torq (dead and gone) and Virtual DJ. I use Virtual DJ for all of my mobile/karaoke gigs and I use Traktor when I mix for myself or play a gig which is mostly EDM/dance music. I’ve never used Serato, but I’m sure it’s popular for good reason.

Traktor Z2 has full native support in VDJ8.