It is good to be able to swap experiences and, as you say, the analytical side of spectroscopy is very rewarding ... as is also the case with photometry. I quickly found out that the science that amateurs can do iin astronomy is far more rewarding than taking 'pretty pictures'.
I tried to get an Eta Car BVRI and a spectra earlier this evening but as soon as I was ready to shoot the clouds arrived thick and fast
