CD Changer Stutters / cuts out

[mcH]

The OEM Changer in my 2001 NB has started cutting out, and I haven't figured out a pattern to it. CD's will play, the music sounds like there is a short in the changer cable. Today I took out the magazine and blew it and the changer out with compressed air, but it didn't help. From what I've read here, it appears to be a common problem with older changers, -- has anyone figured out a fix? [or is it a new changer]?

Which brings on the next part:

If an OEM changer won't play MP3's, and is rather expensive to replace [expensive compared to getting a new HU], I'm thinking that I should abandon the OEM cassette head unit and get something new that plays CDs and mp3s? Does anyone know if the newer OEM Beetle HU's play mp3s? [I like the stock look.]

If not, has someone found a good unit that matches the old black look of the OEM faceplate?

Thanks.... sheryl