The emitter resistors are way too large. They should be less than 100 ohms.
Yes, the leftmost schematic holds the cascode at a fixed voltage above GROUND, while the rightmost holds the cascode at a fixed voltage above SIGNAL.
The first runs into overload at very high inputs, and varies the Vce of the input devices. The second has much higher overload, and holds constant Vce on the input devices, eliminating Early effect.
Cordell tells us......
Leach shows.....
There are lot's of rules. Find the one that suits your compromises. Expect Re from 10r to 1000r.