Well, a small tank heater cost me only like $10 for a 10w heater. Can't get much cheaper than that. 'Course I didn't have to pay shipping. Are there any lfs around you that will do special orders. Then you wouldn't have to pay shipping.
I just bought 2 heaters from Meijer on clearance, 75 Watts $7
is this red enough for you?
their redness also depends on their environment, and diet..
I notice that if i put any RCS in my discus tank, their color makes a drastic change, they get very red... MAybe its the temp, or the food supply in the tank.. but they are definately red..