Which cleaner option? Need help!!!

I've got a 20x40 IG Vinyl pool with a Polaris 380 w/booster pump. My problem is that the booster line has developed a "major" leak. The system is about 8 years old. My pool builder says they have run into situations like this and it is almost always a break in a fitting right by the pool wall. That fitting is under a 5' wide concrete walkway. They said they can come in and cut an 8" square hole in the concrete and fix the problem and then patch the concrete. The cost for that will be about $500. I am starting to think this might be putting good money after bad in that the system is 8 years old.

Would I be better off buying some other type of cleaning system that does not need a booster pump. What is good, what is bad, and how much should I expect to spend. All opinions are wanted and welcomed.

If you go for a new cleaner, you should at least consider a robotic (Doplhin, Aquabot, etc). They cost more but IMHO, they are the kings of cleaners.