Price, no idea. I've only used the thermostats that have come standard with the cages. I don't think they're the best.
Heat source would be three heat lamps. As for set up, simple 4x2x2 cage with heat lamps on the far right hand side. Typical cage I believe.
Look for habistat or microclimate dimming thermostat, both are good brands and the dimming type works best for bulbs, personally i use the habistat brand and they are great, can be purchased online from herpshop.