Looking at replacing a Crestron iServer with an Autonomics MMS-2A at a clients and need to utilize the USB Audio output on the MMS to feed into the distributed audio system to allow for a second stream.

What is your go to DAC for this situation? I could install the MMS-5A but I don't need 4 analog streams and I can almost install two MMS-2A with DACs for the price of one MMS-5A.

Parasound Zdac

Second stream? You have two without the DAC already. Do you mean you need two analog streams?

Yes need to convert the USB output to Analog to connect into the Crestron amp to allow for both outputs of the MMS-2A to be accessible on the distributed audio system.

You could use a normal DAC to convert the digital coax output to analog instead of an expensive USB DAC. A USB DAC would give you a third stream from the 2A.

Aren't the USB and SPDIF outputs shared? whatever is playing on one is played on the other?

The USB, analog RCA, and SPDIF are all independent. If a USB DAC is added, an additional stream and AirPlay zone becomes available.

This is definitely true on the MMS-5A, but from what I can find via website, the 2A only supports two streams:

"You can play multiple independent streams of audio (six on the MMS·5A, or two on the MMS·2) using analog, digital, or pristine jitter-free, bit perfect high definition USB audio (HD-USB on MMS·5A only) for audiophile DACs and high-end amplifiers that have digital USB inputs"

[Link: autonomic-controls.com]

I'd always assumed the 2A worked same as 5A, but have never used the USB out on a 2A unit.

Autonomic responded to my request for clarification:
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That article actually applies to the MMS2a and 5a

You may use a USB DAC to get a 3rd digital stream
That would give you the digital coax/spdif
An analog output
And finally, a second digital output that would come off the DAC

With that being said the 3rd streams DAC can be capable of giving you an analog signal
It all depends on what DAC is purchased
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In short, six independent streams from the 5A, and three from the 2A.