So they just included a basic 16-bit recorder at the same time. It was designed as a pre-amp. first and foremost.
Not to be skeptical, but seems more likely they just didn't want it cutting into the sales of their high-end recorders. I'm guessing the cost/labor/design differences between a 16 and 24 recording stage are negligible.
More like to make it a proper 24/96 recorder would cost a lot more and make it more expensive than the LD and not get many sales.
They included an existing 16-bit circuit into a superb pre-amp without upping the projected price of the pre-amp.
I am betting that a 16-bit recording on the EMP will sound better than a 24-bit recording on an inexpensive pocket recorder.
Anyway - I gate my EMP today and I'll see how it sounds.