New motor gone...

Curious what your initial timing was? The numbers don't sound too off theoretically (I'm building one right now as well), but 8 psi at 9:1 your FCR would be close to 14. Not sure what 93 octane is good to but I've always been told to stay under 12. I don't have any experience to share but definetly trying to learn so I don't end up in the same boat.
Timing was locked out at 35*. With 8 psi the Mallory should have pulled timing to 23*. Without running lean that should have been safe. That's why I'm thinking the box failed.