Letterman's show was so much more refined than Colbert's

I loved Letterman but even the early days were rough around the edges. Here is a link to a Late Night after 3 years on the air. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fC1Y3LuhcY The first bit about the desk was "goofy"; at the 8:30 mark, the discussion about Phil Collins is awkward; and the whole set/audience gives that feel it is being filmed in someone's basement. I love Colbert on the old show and the new one. I hope he is given time to find his stride. He really needs better guests on a more consistent basis and musical acts that don't make me cringe. Although I fast forward to the comedy bits usually, I hope it all works out. And for what it's worth, I think my favorite show in this genre is Graham Norton.

Dave had 30 years to perfect his show. Stephen's had a year to find his own voice after being a character for a decade.