Salt systems ARE chlorine, they just make the chlorine in the pool instead of having to be added. They do simplify pool maintenance but (and I am going to shout here since it needs to be shouted) DO NOT ELIMINATE THE NEED TO TEST AND ADJUST YOUR WATER ON A REGULAR BASIS!. They have their own particular set of problem but do simplify pool maintenance. I am a firm believer in them and have a salt system on my own pool/spa.
I noticed that you said you have had Intex pools (inflatable ring pools) in the past. While this company has made a workable, inexpensive SWCG in the past their current units include copper ionization and I would NOT recommend them. Copper is an algaecide but NOT an EPA approved sanitizer and copper is what turns hair green! IMHO, copper should not be used in pools.
So if I want to go with a salt water clorinator does that mean I need to get a perminant pool or is there another product for the inflatable pools. My biggest annoyance with the Intex was that I felt the filter didn't keep it clean enough.
Does anyone know if the steel sided easy set pools suck? I've read good reviews and bad.