As far as the ball python you want the cool side upper 70's or low 80's, and you will need a warm spot upper 80's to low 90's not over 95 forsure. I keep mine about 88, or thereabouts. So you will need the UTH, and a way to control the heat. Left uncontrolled an UTH will get hot enough to give the belly of your ball python a serious burn. Not sure about the RTB, someone will probably be able to give you some advice about him.