Hi, this is my first post.
Tough question whats best, because for me it changes as to which one I'm enjoying the most.
I watched Vegas from the start and have to agree that it has the strongest characters. We are into season 8 in the UK and have just had the cross over episode with Without a Trace. With Vegas in particular there aren't many shows that I can think of that have lasted nearly 8 years with 2 spin offs that are still essential viewing and still have great storylines.
But I think that once the other main characters start to leave then it may be time to stop. I think Vegas can handle Sarah leaving but if any of the others decide to go then I think they should stop and keep its integrity. The X files is a prime example of a great show that went on 2 or 3 seasons too long once characters left.
I was really anti-Miami when the idea was floated as I thought it would take away from Vegas, but as it progressed I got in to it more and more, season 1 was average especially the first episodes with Kim Dealaney, but by season 2 I was looking forward to watching it as much as I was Vegas. David Caruso makes the show for me, he is a really strong actor playing a great character. However, we have just finished season 5 in the UK and I think it was poor, they seemed to change something in the look of the show, the overlayed visual effects, the 24-style 3 way split screen, the music, there something that I can't put my finger on that changed and changed for the worse imo. Has anyone else noticed that? I also think the introduction of Natalie was a mistake. The constant explaining of storylines and processes to her almost seemed like she was being used as a tool for the writers to explain to the audience what going on. No offence but this is something that is very noticeable in any US written drama show, they sometimes treat the audience as not being clever enough and use a character to explain everything. Its unecessary. The Delko getting shot storyline was a mistake for me, he made too quick a recovey. Wolf leaving, being on TV then coming back was rushed. The terrorist plot which ended with Caine shooting the truck was also too rushed and this has been indicitive of many of the storylines in this season.
Again with NY I thought the first season wasn't a great start but again it picked up as it progressed and at the moment, (in the UK we are now 6 episodes in to season 4), its the one CSI I'm enjoying the most. The cast seem to be getting stronger I suppose as I get more familiar with them.