Problem solved:
I forgot to replace the 1 amp rail fuses following the control board and transistor installation and start up

.... Those tests were conducted with the DBT and variac in line. When bypassed, the initial rush current must have popped the right channel B+ fuse.
Bias steady on both channels, DC offset immeasurable but the nice surprise is the power output, 421 wpc @ 8r (single channel driven)
Dare I try a 4 ohm load? Will the 5 amp rail fuses be up to the task I wonder.