So what DAW/program was he using? It amazes me how much can be done by software (on a laptop no less) than what used to be done in a recording studio involving much time and $.
The cool thing is it really doesn't matter which DAW; there are so many options these days.
And yes, producing good quality recordings can be done very cost effectively compared to years ago. So it's pretty much the talent/art/creativity that is the limiting factor now.
All Daws actually record the audio at the same quality (all things considered).
In other words audio recorded in ProTools, Powertracks, Reaper or any other will sound the same if the same interface/drivers are used in each.
After that it's all about your workflow and finding a DAW you are comfortable in.