My Power amp also worked perfectly - and I could even drive it with a pedal.... perfect - but the preamp was not.
Check whether this problem is pre-amp or power amp related by pluging a line level input to the FX loop return, this will divide the problem by 2, no output then the problem is topside of your FX return jack, full output then it is the preamp.
Dressing of cables correctly wired will only affect the tone of the output not the existence of output. This is a logical circuit so follow it religiously, checking every wire for correct location and connection. I would recommend an A3 print of the layout and a highlighter pen after each wire is installed. The presence of correct voltages on the test points will tell you whether you have half the circuit right, no output will tell you that your signal circuit is broken or you have a bad valve. Nik will send you a voltage chart that will give you a good starting point for checking, get the voltages right and you are almost there. I think you can safely assume that Niks circuit boards are good until proven otherwise.