Sounds like mine might just need a bit more lapping to "even out". My initial attempts @ honing with it resulted in sub-par edges. I tried again, but haven't test-shaved yet. Maybe I'm just still used to the Belgians (more forgiving).

One thing I'll try next time is, instead of a quick lapping after honing (to clear swarf), I'll get the stones wet (the 12k might be better to run it under the faucet for a minute owing to its thirstiness) and quick-lap before honing.
Hopefully I'll figure this out before long & get whisker-wiping edges again!