2003 Chevy S-10 Drive-train

I have a 2003 s-10 extreme with 2-peice drive shaft (5 u-joints and constant velocity joints in the back section). I seem to have busted the rear velocity joint and the only way to repair it is to buy the back half of the drive shaft which I was informed was about $800.00. This drive shaft bolts up to the rear-end. I would like to know if I could change out the rear-end and use a drive shaft that hooks up with a regular yoke and u-joint set-up. This set-up is found in some of your slightly older model s-10's (1998-2003). Some of these drive shafts only have 3 u-joints and from my past I think this has got to be a better set-up. I would like your opinion on the situation and any advice would be greatly appreciated, Thanks.