It's a case of fixing one thing leading to a domino effect of fixing the next thing. I think you're stuck with re-doing the ceiling if you take this down. My guess is that you could find a new track system that would fit the same footprint but provide better lighting. Halogen lights have the brightest light available, but they do produce quite a bit of heat. LED lights are the standard choice for track lighting, but some people find those too bright and almost headache-inducing. Perhaps think of installing a dimmer with whatever system you choose so that you can control the light quality.

To answer your question, yes, there are pendants that can be used with track systems, just make sure they're compatible with your existing system.

There are also adapters that would allow you to turn almost any pendant into a track pendant, or your electrician could modify a pendant to work with your track system (I've done this before).

all you have to do is take down one track head so you can bring it to the store with you, there are two type of track, halo and juno in older homes it could be either. Plenty of adapters, lightbulbs and track heads out there, if we knew what you wanted to accomplish via a photo that would help. depending on how handy you are it can by a DIY.

Take a look at this company for a lot of track lighting options, Sea Gull Collection Track Lighting.