To say money isn't an important issue these days in techno is complete bullshit. That goes for the bigger dogs anyway. I can think of a lot of techno producers who made excellent tools and tracks who've moved on to big room, filtered down, tacky synth build-up b.s. "techno." Why? They have been getting different and better paying gigs and a producer is normally inspired by the crowds he/she plays for. Any promoters here? Ever been in a bidding war for a techno DJ? It's ridiculous. We lose DJs all the time to NYC and Chicago. Why? Money. For many of the bigger guys, money alters their creative process as well as final decisions.

In business terms, like running a record label...I say the more money, the better (if you're repsonsible enough to handle it). Ever notice how some of the most professional and consistent sounding/looking record labels always seem to sell the most copies? Having the money won't make your label a good one, but with proper business skills it's definitely a great tool for marketing, packaging, and more.

From a production stand point, some producers work better with gear rather than computers. Maybe money can afford them that gear. Usually it doesn't, and having a studio full of equipment you don't know will only hinder your performance. I use some hardware, a sony laptop, and stock soundcard. Anybody can get by with the basics as long they have some character inside them.