I have a VE-200 and love it! I used to have an on/off Ranco, but much prefer the VE.
Something I learned the hard way - you'll spend more money in the long run by buying a cheaper thermostat that if you just cough up the $100 up front. If you can, I recommend a paypal credit account. Anything over $100 and they'll let you go interest free for six months. $100 paid over six months is extremely affordable and how I've made a lot of my expensive purchases for my animals.