No the deb is a version behind. I can't even compile it. Nor can i get it to run. The package manager is behind (thus not my fault
)
I run lubuntu and am1.52 and/or 1.53 I have no problems like you mention at all.
I would sugest that you delete your .attract folder and all files in your .mame/cfg folder..
better yet..rename the folders to something else first and then set it up from scratch...just the basics..and then try it.