I have several versions of Matrix Reference and Silver Reference ICs around, and in my system the Silver Refs are more revealing up top (i.e. more air and better-defined highs in general with more transient snap as well) without crossing over into brightness or harshness. This is especially true of the original Matrix Refs vs. any of the Silver Refs. The Silver Refs also yield tighter and quicker bass. I didn't care for the Matrix Ref IIs, which were a little glaring to my ears and lacked some of the fullness/warmth of the original. I think the original Silver Refs come pretty close to the Silver Ref IIs, so if they better fit your budget it's not too much of a compromise (although go for the SR IIs if you can swing it). Considering what you're looking to improve I'd think the Silver Refs would be well worth a try. Best of luck.
