Yes, I'm aware of the reputation of the CAE's although these are the second and third ones that I've owned, and so far no problems.................famous last words. If they decide to get over aggressive with any of the other fish I'll be sending them back to the LFS. The two of them do tend to chase each other about though.
I had no trouble with the sand, obviously having washed it thoroughly, it settled without a problem. Mind you I can see from only one day how much poo the fish produce. I think I'll be hoovering a bit more often that with the gravel.
Oh and that background will be changed as well!!!