Which is the best thermostat?

[Argentra]

Alright, I have to ask. After reading many a post regarding temp control, I must see which is the best thermostat to have for a BP enclosure. Right now mine is a 20L setup, but once she's bigger I'll be getting a designed wood/plexi cage. I bought a repti-temp 500R which I'll use for now, but I want to know which stat to save up for.
Thanks!

[Purrrfect9]

I use a Helix, and I love it! It's one of the more expensive thermostats, but its' well worth your money! But I hear that Johnsons and Ranco's work just as well also.

[xdeus]

You can't go wrong with one of the four main stats out there: Helix, Herpstat, Johnson, and Ranco.

The Helix and Herpstat are more expensive because they are proportional stats and have more features than the Johnson and Ranco, but I believe the Johnson and Ranco can handle a higher load.

[Stewart_Reptiles]

I use an herpstat, and it is backed-up by a ranco

[liam]

i use 'habistat' only one i could get hold off out here, but my vet said they are a good make. and its 120 dollers for 1 so they better be good.

[Kagez28]

i have a johnson control a419. and it works great for everyday living. next year when i get into breeding i will be getting a helix for the incubator, and then will move it to the rack i have.

my opinion is unless you are breeding you don't need a night drop style, or a proportional. a simple on/off will work.

[CntrlF8]

i have a johnson control a419. and it works great for everyday living. next year when i get into breeding i will be getting a helix for the incubator, and then will move it to the rack i have.

my opinion is unless you are breeding you don't need a night drop style, or a proportional. a simple on/off will work.

Even if you are breeding, constant day/night temps are just fine. I believe the fine folks over at ballpythons.ca use 92/82 24-7 and for breeding drop it to 82-72 constant.

For incubating, however, you'll definitely want a helix or similar proportional thermo...

[Argentra]

Thanks, everyone, for the great responces. So far it looks like Johnson or Ranco will be the way to go, most likely Johnson. However, I am a little confused with what 'raw unit' includes. Does that mean just the control box and probe? Also I'm currently looking at mgreptiles.com as a source; they have a good price at $65 and free shipping, but I wanted to know if they are a reliable source first before I order.

Thanks again!

[xdeus]

I wouldn't recommend MGReptiles . However, I would recommend Reptile Basics or the Bean Farm.

You are correct about the raw unit. You will have to wire it with a cord or powerstrip, but it's relatively easy and they come with good instructions. Alternatively, you can usually order it pre-wired. Good luck!

[elevatethis]

Thanks, everyone, for the great responces. So far it looks like Johnson or Ranco will be the way to go, most likely Johnson. However, I am a little confused with what 'raw unit' includes. Does that mean just the control box and probe? Also I'm currently looking at mgreptiles.com as a source; they have a good price at $65 and free shipping, but I wanted to know if they are a reliable source first before I order.

Thanks again!

I'd stay away from Matt at MG Reptiles...here's some threads with stories from recent customers:

http://www.faunaclassifieds.com/foru...=Matt+Graybeal

http://www.faunaclassifieds.com/foru...=Matt+Graybeal