Obsessed

So I got BlazBlue 4 days ago and decided to main Carl. However, this is my first fighting game (not counting the Smash Bros. Series) so I am having a lot of problems. I have a few questions regarding Carl/BlazBlue. 1. Carl is pretty hard to learn (or so I've heard). I lack experience with fighting games so should I try and main an easier character first? 2. How long does it generally take to get decent with Carl? 3. I use the analog stick on the PS3 controller. My precision sucks, but will it get better the more I practice with the controller? Should I invest money in a fight stick like the HRAP3SA? 4. How exactly should I learn Carl? Do I start with controlling Nirvana, should I start with Carl-only combos, or should I first practice things like the Ala-cancel? Should I work on defense before learning offensive techniques? 5. How hard is it to learn the combos? Not setting up for them, but just actually performing the moves.