I got the red (actually maroon) for my mom who is 83 years old. I played with it for a while before giving it to her. I have the 6" black EZ Reader. I can honestly say I didn't notice any difference between the black or maroon as far as contrast for reading. It isn't a bright garish red, instead it is a deeper, classier red.
The reason I mentioned my mom's age is, as I understand it, as you age contrast becomes more and more important. She has used a black and the maroon. She has mentioned no difference between the two for reading.
And besides, if you are a red lover like me, the read is pretty! Isn't that what is most important!

S