Sand is just as easy to clean as BB. Both will keep debris on top where the flow should be enough to keep it moving until the filters grab it. I have sand in all my tanks and never vacuum because there is nothing to vacuum.
If you want 'high quality' discus you will need to go to a private breeder. This is 'high quality' as in the 'right' shape, colors, etc. If you just want good pets you can get your discus from a decent LFS and pick healthy ones that look good to you. I think it is analogous to dogs. If you want the show standards you need to go to the right places and be willing to pay for it. If you want a good pet you can go by what you think looks good. I have gotten from both. The ones from the breeder cost more than any of the ones at my work were marked for.
Again, the ones from the LFS seem to be hardier. The ones from breeders who maintain super pristine water quality are not as tolerant of different water parameters and are not as forgiving of water quality. I think you should start with the LFS ones and if you get into them more you can always move up to the high end ones.
If you want 'high quality' discus you will need to go to a private breeder. This is 'high quality' as in the 'right' shape, colors, etc. If you just want good pets you can get your discus from a decent LFS and pick healthy ones that look good to you. I think it is analogous to dogs. If you want the show standards you need to go to the right places and be willing to pay for it. If you want a good pet you can go by what you think looks good. I have gotten from both. The ones from the breeder cost more than any of the ones at my work were marked for.
Again, the ones from the LFS seem to be hardier. The ones from breeders who maintain super pristine water quality are not as tolerant of different water parameters and are not as forgiving of water quality. I think you should start with the LFS ones and if you get into them more you can always move up to the high end ones.