Hi M M! I always thought the cherry color was a little on the pink side, could you use monarda (Jacob Cline)? I'm trying to think of a "good" red and the only other thing I can come up with is the red morning glory. I have a book on colors let me take a look...
-B

Red spider zinnia is red. Really red. I bought my seeds from Park.

http://www.parkseed.com/gardening/PD/2233

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T&M has them too.

I just reread your post and caught the clue words "zinnia bed" DUH! So disregard my earlier answer, I concur with Token. If you'd like to try the red spider zinnias I have them and can spare some seed :-)

Here is a pic of cherry zinnia for comparison
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There is also fire profusion zinnia
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-B

ew...you're right; worse than scarlet.
I think I have Red Spider Zinnia seeds from a trade- I'll try those. Thanks for the replies!