I cannot speak about Aurender-type machines, but I did change from laptop to optimized PC server, both running JRiver, and the sound improvement was very noticeable. Worth the price? That depends how much is money worth to you. It is worth switching for me.
BTW, it will also depend on what DAC you run. Some are more sensitive to the feeding machine/cable than others.
BTW, it will also depend on what DAC you run. Some are more sensitive to the feeding machine/cable than others.