These days, it's often one person with a DAW, maybe some flying faders and some nice mics. There are schlepping gigs for AV and event companies that are in doldrums now. There are still some large studios in big cities. The key there is to bring in clients, make coffee, clean the restroom and sweep the floor. Then you're golden. But without much gear, you can show up and record a vocal duo or string quartet... whatever, on location like never before. This is probably the best route for one with zero options. Some friends of mine were bringing Adats to shows years ago and getting a pretty good mix. The next thing you know, they're recording the Dave Mathews Band at Red Rocks album.