If the voltage across the middle pin and left pin (as viewed from the top) of the voltage regulator is that high, then I think it is defective or damaged. I tested a bunch of vregs from the same batch I sent to the UK, and the output was always between 4.99 and 5.02V. I’m not sure if that higher output of 5.8V to 6V would cause problems with the ATmega, but it certainly could — especially since you said you measured 8V once at the ATmega.
One more step I’d like you to take: can you send me a picture of your 9V adapter label? I just want to double check it. Just email it to michael @ nootropicdesign.com
I think the best course of action is that I replace your whole Hackvision. We’ll work it out over email.
As for the adapter — an unregulated power supply will output significantly higher voltage than advertised when there is no load. My 9V supply outputs over 12V with no load. When attached to a Hackvision, the output measures over 10V, so your experience is normal.