I can and will stick to your original question
#1 the Helix is nice and a god stat, mine is going on about 4 years old I think with no problems.
#2 the VE would be my choice, I currently have several of the VE-200s and they are running great. I got my first one right when Rich released them. Total best bang for the buck hands down in my mind.

I have some of the new heat tape but I haven't had time to build my next 41q rack so it is not in use yet. Then again, I do trust Rich to deliver a good product. (That means a lot to me and "trust me" it takes a lot for me to say that too)

Now you asked a question that "YOU" need to research on your own as well because it is possible the worst question that gets asked here.
You know opinions, everyone has one and most of the stink.