The 7315 is a pre-amp stage to an amplifier (for in-car or budget hi-fi use) with serial control (64 step) volume and tone stage. The 8551 is a 1W audio amplifier with a 64 stage step up/down attenuator at its input (with no memory).
If you are just after a digitally controlled attenuator try something designed for the job (e.g. Maxim / Dallas both offer 64 - 256 stage pots with NV memory, up/down or serial control). Combine that with a decent headphone amp and you are away with better results. If you need the tone controls as well, stick with the 7315, or National & Maxim both have some good alternatives.