firstly:

the most technically proficient DJ in the world playing pop records would still sound crap, skils or no skills. Music all the way...........
bang on couldn't agree with you more......

As for the hip-hop/techno debate well I have to say i don't think they are comparable in a music sense..... And the reasons why are all well doccumented above.

However I would argue that they are comparable in that they get the most out of their 1210's and mixer.....

What pop dj ever turned the cartridge upside down and then slid the vinyl over the needle?