The UK Arcadia MVB is by far the best one I've tried. You're correct that they are not to be used with a thermostat. They need to be adjusted by height and set at a range that provides proper UVB. You may not get the proper surface temps this way and need an additional bulb - that's the catch with using the all in one MVBs. The 100w version I have produces a good amount of UVB between about 30-35cm and the temperature is just about right at that distance. The output from the 80w will be a bit lower, so you'll need it to be closer to achieve the same. Your results will also vary based on ambient temperature and insulating factors of your enclosure.
What are the dimensions of your enclosure? What you might consider doing is to replace the MVB with a plain basking light that you can operate on a thermostat or dimmer. Something along these lines Swell Basking Heat Lamps Screw Fitting or a similar flood bulb from a hardware store. You may need to try a few different wattages or brands to find what works best in your setup. Once you find one that produces proper surface temps, grab a few to have on hand for when they burn out.
Keep the MVB handy and use it on an adjustable stand with a dome fixture that you can use as a portable basking spot for around the house (if it's safe to let him roam around a bit as he gets older). Once you have the temps straightened out via the controller and a halogen or incandescent bulb, you can use a T5 bulb for UVB. This would attach to the top of the enclosure and should sit about 30cm above the main basking area for optimal output. Arcadia ProT5 Kit - Desert 12%
What are the dimensions of your enclosure? What you might consider doing is to replace the MVB with a plain basking light that you can operate on a thermostat or dimmer. Something along these lines Swell Basking Heat Lamps Screw Fitting or a similar flood bulb from a hardware store. You may need to try a few different wattages or brands to find what works best in your setup. Once you find one that produces proper surface temps, grab a few to have on hand for when they burn out.
Keep the MVB handy and use it on an adjustable stand with a dome fixture that you can use as a portable basking spot for around the house (if it's safe to let him roam around a bit as he gets older). Once you have the temps straightened out via the controller and a halogen or incandescent bulb, you can use a T5 bulb for UVB. This would attach to the top of the enclosure and should sit about 30cm above the main basking area for optimal output. Arcadia ProT5 Kit - Desert 12%