I have manual discs and have no problem locking them up. My current tires are quite dated, but the car is definitely tire-limited [not brake] when it comes to slowing down. New tires will be here next week, but I don't expect any issues.
Break-in the pads and most brakes need some level of heat [if not, a lot depending on the compound] to really come to life.
I've avoided hydroboost due to the lack of pedal feel, which becomes problematic for performance driving/threshold braking. It is just fine, however, for solely running down the road and getting around.
I may get to a vacuum assist at some point, but for now, my Wilwood pad knockback is more of a problem than anything.