For what it is worth... I am prone to think that it is a combination of hardware and software problems.
I have solved my problem as such:
1. Clean install of win8 pro x64 on my asus ux31a touch
2. Disabled automatic driver updates (automatic windows updates)
3. I am currently using the generic MS drivers (native to windows) and MS bluetooth stack
This is what I have observed:
On 2.4ghz N connection... my data caps out at ~135mbps, but zero dropouts.
On 5ghz N connection... data caps out at 300mbps and zero drop outs.
I think the issues is either with the 2.4ghz radio or the software stack that operates it.