Mike added some info about albums and economic stuff at his blog. Click here to check it out.
"M: Although I don't have a crystal ball, I think it's safe to say that the current economic situation will not affect the quality of Linkin Park music in the near future."
"M:I believe we are 100% capable and equipped to make "Linkin Park quality" studio albums at home. We choose to record at a studio because it gives us a focused, scheduled environment to "get serious" in. After all, if we were all making an album at my house every day, we might end up hanging out more than recording. "
"M: Do you love Marlboro more than your favorite band? Do you love Louis Vuitton or Starbucks more? Some may, but I'll say this: if you steal music from a band that you love, but you spend money on something from a company that you don't care a lot about, I would very politely suggest that you might have some re-prioritizing to do. "
Sounds good.