Advice Replacing Radio 93 E36 318i

[sqlpython]

To begin with the Radio did not work from purchase and the Mechanic hasn't a Clue. I of course considered fuses and bad Connector plug and lastly burnt out Radio Unit.
  I need advice considering which alternative for replacement.
Please note I am not an Audiophile. I just want to play some Stereo FM with the original Cassette unit powering an Adapter to run an Portable CD Walkman OR....... possibly a AfterMarket Direct fit Replacement Stereo (as direct a plugin as possible)

1. Any tips beyong fuse or connector as to why this Stereo may have failed?

2. Tips on replacing with Same Unit

3. Suggestions on Close to Exact AfterMarket Retail Replacement unit with Single CD..
 As noted above, I am not an Audiophile as simple Alpine or Pioneer unit will do.
Thank You.. My unit pictured below

[DesktopDave]

Any standard DIN head unit (stereo) will replace it.  A wiring adapter will be required to connect the new head unit to the BMW speaker plugs.

The hard part for me was to find something that would match the red back-lighting on the BMW controls.  I settled on the Blaupunkt Hamburg MP57...it added MP3, USB and bluetooth.  It has a white display, so it wasn't perfect, but it's close enough for me.

My e30 uses a different harness, so I just cut the BMW connectors off & spliced the Blaupunkt in.  Getting the old one out isn't too hard either.  Just flip the two small covers on the left and right sides out, then use a very small hex wrench (allen key) to twist the oddball 5-sided anti-theft screws .  They'll retract some clamps and the unit can then slide out.