Decisions, Decisions

my birthday is in a few days and i think i'm going to treat myself to some gear. there are a few things i'm looking for to add to my arsenal. first i would like a DVS (Digital Vinyl System). i want to get back into dj'ing live and it's time i was able to bring my computer into the mix. the other piece of hardware i'd like to get is a small control surface for Live/live applications such as when playing and practicing with the acoustic band.

i think i've narrowed my DVS setup down based on my limited understanding and experience but after lots of poking around. i plan on picking up the Ms. Pinky system with the included M-Audio Conectiv interface. it's the most generic system, seems to be widely supported by other software, and i like the hackability of it. it'll play well with Ableton Live for more options, it's got an SDK, so if it doesn't support acting as a controller already, someone will write the software at some point.

the midi control surface is a little harder for me to decide on. i want something portable, but i don't want redundant gear. i need to start a list of my requirements and keep in mind the gear i already have. the Akai MPD24 looks like a great solution, but i have an M-Audio Axiom 25 that has the velocity sensitive pads and infiniti knobs. the M-Audio trigger finger looks good but doesn't have transport. and the Novation Nocturn is nice and small and seems to have some special midi mapping capabilities that would make it work with more software. i think this piece of gear would also serve duty during DJ sets. it could act as a controller for queing in the DVS software and also triggering samples from Live.

Desired specs with rating:
- crossfader, should/nice
- infinite knobs, must
- programmable buttons, must (velocity-sensitive, nice)
- transport, should
- faders, nice, but knobs would substitute
- portable, must (nice to fit in laptop backpack)

it might be a good idea to get used to the DSV software before making a final deciscion here to find out how i'll be using it.