streaming and audiophile stereo

The 24 bit delusion paper is nothing new- except for being probably the most emotional technical paper that I have ever read.  But then it is not really a technical paper.  It is a sales pitch for the writer's own DACs.  

Some of what he says is true.  20 bit resolution is about the upper limit.  So why record 24 bit?  Because the master source should be better than the 2nd and 3rd generation copies.  The recording industry was built upon a high standard master recording in the analog world.  Interesting that the professionals in the industry stuck to that standard in the digital world.  Is is a paradigm issue or something more?  Perhaps one day in the future a true 24 bit resolution DAC will be available for the consumer.  

R2R DACs are becoming all the rage lately most likely due to manufacturing costs. DAC chips are getting scarcer thus more costly which makes R2R ladder DAC production more competitive.  R2R ladder DACs are not new and when done well can sound incredible.  Question always comes down to cost/dollar.  We consumers are fortunate to have a choice.

@russbutton, you have a pretty decent analog rig.  If you are happy with your digital setup, then no one can argue that.  When you compare various digital devices in your system and conclude none are better than what you have, then that should be qualified with the statement, in your system.

Bits is bits is a greatly oversimplified viewpoint for digital audio.  Most of the posters on these forums have found digital audio to be a much more complex and sometimes bewildering hobby.  It's better to keep an open mind but still be somewhat skeptical when someone is trying to sell you something.  Meanwhile, many of us are hobbyists eager to share our knowledge.

As for the depreciation of expensive audio gear- pick your poison.  Expensive cars depreciate 15% per year on average- well, so do cheap cars.  Expensive wine is worth nothing once you drink it.  High end audio gear tends to hold its value after its initial depreciation.  If you are focused only on cost then great sound will continue to elude you.