Golden is supposedly a touch warmer. Reference is a bit more neutral, however, Cardas in general is warm. I have the Cross and compared it to the Golden Reference. I honestly couldn't detect much of a difference. There was a difference, for sure, but I don't think I could tell if I didn't A/B them. So I went the cheaper route. Could make a bigger difference in your system or none at all. That's your gamble to make.
Good luck.
Good luck.