Pardon my ignporance, but apart from a larger file size, how do you
tell if a file is 24-bit or 16-bit?

I run Cubase VST-5 (24 bit version) and have recorded a similar piece
of material using both settings, but both recordings seem similar, when
you listen to the playback and compare the graphic wave patterns.

Isn't 24 bit supposed to offer more dB/dynamics etc? Shouldn't the 24
bit setting offer more headroom and therefore display a larger wave
pattern?

Bart.