Been using Skype 4.2 and never had major problems. Usually
try making calls at night here when US and Europe are asleep.
Daytime use can be a bit bothering sometimes but never get
any dropouts echoes or tinny sounds despite there being 30
million+ bozos online. Messages ditto but it could be I'm just
lucky.
Have never upgraded beyond 4.2 because the extra bells and
silly whistles I'm sure degenerates call quality and reliability.
Octane do you use a cam when calling? It might pay to drop
it for a while and see if you get better performance.