QPunch, it looks like some things need to be cleared up real quick.
The only version of the game that actually gets real play in North America is Melty Blood Actress Again (the most recent console port for ps2). Though the scene has slowed down dramatically with the wait for Current Code (the most recent arcade version) to be ported over, you can still find active play in various regions.
Your best bet is not to drop money on MBAC unless you live internationally and in a place where local play is very difficult to come by. Outside of International play, MBAC is pretty much dead. Most of the competition is DEFINITELY NOT playing MBAC.