@dougthebiker Each to his own I guess, but why so cagey - no one is going to sue you! (I hope). Your post would be much more useful if you shared the PCs you auditioned.
A recommendation for what the OP should use isn't implied in sharing what worked and didn't work for you, but it does give us brands/models etc. to investigate, or if nothing else, be aware of. I also think it's great when lesser priced underdogs outperform the pricier competition.
Everyone here is grown up enough to understand we are ultimately responsible for our buying decisions (or should be).
I have been exposed to many brands on AG across the wide spectrum of gear that I have never even heard of before, some of which I have purchased and enjoy.
I did play "Living it Up" - great test recommendation - sounds pretty sweet on my system - her album It's Like This has some pretty dynamic tracks too.