What is 16-bit and 12-bit when you mention sound quality?

In DVC, 16-bit sound is the highest quality sound, with the most data for the truest and fullest range of sound. With 12-bit, the sound quality is just slightly lower, because the amount of data gathered through the sampling and quantization procedures is lower than with 16-bit. However, because there is less data, it does not take up all the space available to audio on the tape. As a result, there are two two-channel channels which is beneficial to those who demand more of their equipment.