Can I use my SSP's DAC instead of external DAC with Mac Mini?

Mesch - operating under the "fewer devices and connections is better" premise - straight cable is fewest # of points to introduce possibility of degradation. Not being cheap, being careful.

" Mesch - operating under the "fewer devices and connections is better" premise - straight cable is fewest # of points to introduce possibility of degradation. Not being cheap, being careful."

That's only true up to a certain point. Your system isn't at a level where a usb to spdif converter will have any real audible negative effects. If it using one helps get your system setup the way you need it, just use one. Besides, if the "fewer devices" rule was always true, we would all be listening to integrated amps with built in dacs.

" DBTom2 - Rotel is a sister brand to Classe & B&W -  we're chasing similar goals."

Classe was bought by Rotel/B&W a few years back. The 2 brands are very different. Ownership is about the only thing they have in common.

" mb1audio02 - I see that some of the higher-end cable-makers (Wireworld for example) sell a cord with mini-optical to toslink ... I actually haven't bought the mini yet - wanted to make sure I could make it work first."

You don't need to get an expensive optical to toslink adapter. It doesn't do anything. Its a mini jack with a hole in the center for the fiber optic light to pass through. 

" Mostly the Mini is for remote music playback using Apple devices as a DJ/remote.  "

Try a free music player called Clementine. Its better than iTunes and supports FLAC. Remote app is available for iOS and Android. Everyone who tries it, keeps it.

Classe was bought by Rotel/B&W a few years back. The 2 brands are very different. Ownership is about the only thing they have in common.

Yeah but sometimes I like to think that there's royal DNA in my bloodstream even though I come from a long line of peasants. ;)

+1 on the mini toslink connector idea. 

Thanks for the hint re: Clementine. Always up to trying a different player.

I believe, if using the DAC within your AVR is preferable, then a USB/SPDIF is your best option going from the MAC mini. One option is an M2Tech HiFace, no need for a USB cable. They come up often on Ebay or AG for under $100. Please keep in mind that any USB DAC has a USB/SPDIF interface contained within. The 1st device the signal passes through therein.  

Forgot to add, wishing you the best with whatever route you chose.
Merry Christmas.