Thanks for your response Daniele. I understand that the datasheet specifies +5V, but in reality it's never as simple as specify a single voltage (that is, no power supply will output an exact voltage, especially under varying load conditions). All device can accept a range of voltages, some much smaller than others.
Thanks also for your suggestion of the 7805, but I was actually thinking of using a 12 to 5V DC-DC converter (like this one: http://www.current-logic.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=204). I discounted a linear regulator such as the 7805 because it will dissipate a whole bunch of power/heat. Dropping 7V at 2A peak is 14W! Also, the 7805 in TO-220 packages are usually rated at only 1.5A, and going to the TO-3 package with appropriate heat sinking is a real pain to deal with (and are quite physically bulky).
But either way, seeing as the SPA3102 already has a switching regulator built it, it seems superfluous to use an external regulator.
I guess what I'm really asking is: Where can I find the "absolute maximum" ratings for the SPA3102? This level of detail doesn't seem to be covered on the standard datasheet.
