I like CSI Las Vegas - nothing against the spinoffs but I feel more involved with the characters in CSI LV .
Incidentally - i was intrigued when i caught the pilot on DVD - the whole Team Dynamic is Different. Captain Brass is in charge and is VERY shouty. Gil is just a Lab Nerd in this episode. The Producers changed the roles for the next episode and put Gil in charge. ( A clue as to this might be om the credits - Producer-William Peterson! )
Gil is such an intriguing character and William Peterson plays him with measured authority. Talking of the Manhunter connection , the Villain turns up in an episode ( nt sure which series ) as a Las Vegas Magician.
Kathrine is a little implausible at times - turning up at crime scenes in tight tops and designer Gear .
Sarah has turned out to be an intriguing character what with all her problems and crush on Gil ( Trying to avoid Spoilers! ) She is not obviously attractive ( unlike some of the women in the spinoffs )
Warwick and Nick are the sparring Jocks - They seem to have contests to see who can take their shirts off most ( which I'm sure is very nice for the ladies! ) I like Nick - he looks like he comes from a fashion catalogue and isnt the subtlest actor in the world. Check out interviews with George Eads - he is VERY Texan in accent when not in character.
Greg is ok - nice to see his hair is a little more in control. I would like to see Archie more - he seems like a Character that could be expanded plus he's a Science-Fiction Nerd!
Captain Brass turns up as a sort of Greek Chorus at times altho they occasionally give him issues ( Runaway Daighter , Poor aim ...)
Havent seen Season 5 yet - waiting to catch it on DVD when the price is a little lower.