I think it's been covered much earlier in this thread or perhaps in another thread, but I though I'd post it anyhow.
Below is the kludge I've worked up to get digital audio out of my iPad and into my E17. Luckily, I'm not in the habit of trying to lug this around with me, but it's nice to know I can if I want to.
1. iPad 1 WiFi 64GB (from Apple)
2. iPad Camera Connection Kit (from Apple)
3.
GearHead UH2100 4-port USB 2.0 Hub (from
Fry's Electronics) [Any hub should work]
4.
Targus APB25US Battery Backup (also from
Fry's) [Cheapest one I could find]
5.
FiiO E17 DAC/Amp (from
B&H Photo)
6.
Hosa MHE-100.5 1/8" right angle to 1/4" adapter (from
Best Buy) [Optional, reduces stress on E17 output jack]
7.
Sennheiser HD598 (from
Amazon) [Substitute your own cans]
8. 2x USB A to 1x Mini B Cable (from my own supplies, like
this one on Newegg)
How To
1) Turn USB charging off on E17
2) Connect items 2 through 8
(Ensure the power USB connector is in the battery backup and the data USB connector is in the hub)
3) Turn on E17
4) Push button on Targus battery backup
5) Connect items 1 and 2 (Battery has to be feeding E17 before connecting the iPad)
What's Happening
The battery backup supplies the E17 with the 5 V, 150 mA it uses (even with USB charging off).
I really thought this would work without the hub, but alas, it does not. I don't know
exactly what the hub is doing in this setup (e.g. ensuring the battery doesn't try to charge the iPad or some other sort of electrical/signal isolation) - regardless, it's required.
This specific battery backup is rated at 3.7 V, 2000 mAh, so by my calculations, it will keep the E17 going to 9+ hours in this setup (make sure to turn USB charging off).
-IKE