iPad Air 4 USB-C to DAC audio issue

I've got some Klipsch R15-PM (powered monitors) setup at my desk.

I have no issues transmitting the digital audio signal over a 3rd party cable from my MacBook Pro–USB-C to USB-B–to the back panel of the powered speakers. The signal is converted to analogue by the DAC (24bit/96hz) built in to the speakers. The name of the speakers displays in the Mac's audio settings.

Unfortunately, the same is not true when the USB-C end is connected to the iPad Air 4 running iPadOS 14.2. The speakers do register i.e., the name appears as the output (same as the MacBook).

But then hit play in any media app (including Youtube or Apple Music) and the audio output flicks back to "iPad", pauses the track, then shows the "Klipsch" again.

Any ideas to resolve the issue?

P.S. seeking an Apple TV 3 for wireless streaming.