I found the most consistent way to guard is hold the '4' direction (back) and as soon as you start guarding, go with X (for 360)/ Square (for PS3) to continue your defense. When you see an opening or something unsafe --> Whiff punish/throw punish
Aww. that's a shame. I wouldn't say buying 5U now is a waste: There's still 5-6 months left until LR comes out and by buying 5U you'll be prepared more for LR as well.
Fair enough man. I bought Smash Bros two days ago and it's definitely a must-have for every Smash fan. It's kinda a mix between Melee and Brawl. If I were in situation like you, that is to pick between 1) Smash 2) New controller or 3) DOA5U I would go for Smash
From standing to crouching guard (example you want to block Hitomi's 6K2K): Hold H to block the first hit, then for the second hit hold your guard and go into crouching guard by pressing the '2' direction.