I am currently looking to buy a new laptop that will be dedicated for recording. I have not researched a whole lot yet but have found two options. I am looking to spend around $1,500 (may be able to spend more if truly worth it). Any recommendations or suggestions are welcome. 

Option #1: PC Audio Labs Rok Box MC M7 (w/ 16GB RAM) - 
 
Option #2: ASUS ZenBook Pro UX501VW - 
 
The ZenBook to me seems to have better specs, however the PC Audio Labs is built with recording in mind. Not sure which is best?
 
The laptop will be used for my home studio. I will be focusing on Christian music (acoustic/rock). I am also interested in doing EDM type stuff so we need the PC to handle a lot of Synths/VSTs. Most of the time I will probably be recording one/two tracks at a time (currently using a Scarlett 18i8) and using programs for drums but hope to be able to record real drums in the future. I am running Sonar Platinum and FL Studio 12. 
 
Thanks for your help! 

Does it have to be a laptop?  You'll get way more bang for your buck with a desktop.
 
If so, here's another laptop to consider (From Jim Roseberry's Studiocat):
 
http://studiocat.com/opencart2/index.php?route=product/product&path=68_70&product_id=60
 

I will be using the computer for a recording project in Kosovo. I will primarily be recording in my home but may need to travel at times, I think using a desktop will be to restricting. It will also be much easy to bring a laptop with me when I travel from the States than a desktop, however I am open to desktop suggestions as well. 

+1 on purchasing from Studiocat.
WSS

Any reason why the Studiocat is better than the PC Audio Labs?

Yes indeed. The owner of the company, Jim Roseberry.
I bought my desktop from him and he has been invaluable as a technician and consultant.

I realize that's anecdotal but what else is there?
;-)
WSS

Yep, Jim's the man.  Knows his stuff, and he's a regular presence in these forums.

Just remember that for sustained loads on those laptops your i7 will probably run at 2.6GHz only. If you're concerned about CPU performance, thin laptops are NOT the way to go. You should look into "desktop replacement" systems that use desktop CPUs. Remember, an i7 6700K runs at 4Ghz all day long, which is more than 50% faster...

I went laptop based a good few years ago and haven't looked back. I can set up my studio anywhere I can get a 230v power supply. And more recently I have been using my laptop in the middle of nowhere in my motorhome which uses solar power to charge its leisure batteries.
 
I would never go back to desktop... Too limiting... For me anyway