Roller Mat replacing Filter Socks, experience & recs wanted!

[YHSublime]

My new tank is setup for filter socks. They seem to be doing a wonderful job, but are also the bane of my existence. 

 

Two questions:

If you have a roller mat, how frequently are you having to replace the roll? 

Does the cost outweigh the maintenance time?

 

Changing out filter socks isn't really that hard to do, and once they clog up, my sump gets very loud, letting me know it's time to change them. I could essentially spend another $60 or so and have enough socks on hand to only have to clean them every two months or so. I guess I'm wondering if the roller mat technology has gotten to where it's worth it, especially on a smaller tank.