Yes Stephen there is a difference,I have noticed improvement in my images,I will try and post a 8 bit hawk,the 16 bit is better.
Over on AP in the birds forum,one of the advanced photographer put up a 'how to' and 16 bit is the way to go,also on BF they say the same,these blokes are really advanced,so I take their advice.
And it does make a difference,and I will take any improvement advice to my limited skills in PP,
Cheers Chris