Are you sure the avatars aren't too big file size wise? As in, are they under 10kb (I think that's the max size).
There use to be a heRO high rate, but it wasn't made by the same team that worked on this one, and was indeed an entirely different server. However don't let that deter you too much from trying this server out too. Hope you and your friend decide to play here and have fun with us.