You’re NOT hijacking at all since this thread is about anything related to RBH.
Personally, I don’t think most people will notice a significant difference between Reference vs Standard. In general, the Reference series will give you more dynamics (play at louder volume without distorting) and power handling (can take more power).
But for most people who don’t listen that loud from a distance of less than 15 FT away, I don’t think they will hear a significant difference.
I have the SVT towers in my living room. The upper cabinet (SV-831/R) is Reference, but the lower subwoofer cabinet (SV-1212N) is non-powered and Standard, not Reference. Although I may not need the extra dynamics and power handling of the Reference SV-1212NR sub, I do wish I had gotten it anyway.
So if it’s 100% about needs, then probably don't need it. But if it’s about wants and desires, then heck yeah.