I can certainly tell the difference between 16 and 24 bit on the same material from same converters. Same with 44k and 96k. Eaven after it has been dithered and sample rate converted back down to 16 /44. That is, if you use high quality sample rate converters and dither. It does make a significant difference in quality. Of course, you can still get a great sound out of 16 bit 44 k and the sample and bit rate are not the only thing that affects sound quality. You do have to have a decent monitoring system to tell the difference.
It's also a matter of if you care about quality. When I install my systems on my car stereo, It matters that everything is clear. Music is more enjoyable to me if the sound quality is good. I like crispy clear highs and thump'n lows with a warm sound. I like my tracks to sound good while creating because it helps inspire me. Some people don't care about sound quality or quality anything for that matter. Some do. For expensive pro audio equipment that has the potential to make hit records, the sound quality should matter even if some don't appreciated it because others will.
but anyway, i admit that the 5k has a great sound, really!
i like these a/d converters. they sound warm (at least to my ears) and not so sterile than the 1+2,5 and 4k.
Thats good to hear. I also did not like the 2500 sterile sound. Like I mentioned, there is more to it than just bit and sample rate. Still think it should have 24bit