Max 7219 with 12v Power

I need help,
I have prototyped a 4 digit seven segment up/down counter, however have run in to difficulty getting the leds bright as i want.
First the schematic is attached, It utilizes MAX7219, UDN2981 Source Driver,ULN2803 Sink Driver.
(I know everything works because I had the digits working)

I tested the voltage to see what the actual voltage to the segments are, to my surprise alot of voltage is used by the drivers,
With a 12volt external supply to the source drive, I read approx 7.0 volts but slowly rises to past 8 volts.

I then attached required leds for a segment , required voltage 3.8 V,(2 leds at 1.9V), 60ma (3 sets in parallel), 49OHM resistor.
To my surprise current to all leds total was 30ma. Was trying to get 60ma, (20 for each series).

Why the fluctuation in my voltage after the UDN2981, and why the lack of current to my leds?
Is it possibly a capacitor? Might the drivers be wrong size or faulty?
I am pretty much a beginner when it comes to electrical engineering, so please be patient with me as I try to learn.

I guess, first, is what does your code look like?

My understanding of the Max is that it works because the LEDs are multiplexed. That is, it sinks and sources current. You're going to need to read up on the datasheet to see if what you're doing is even possible. I'm fairly inexperienced myself, but I get the feeling that you aren't using the Max for it's intended purpose and a different configuration or different IC might be more suitable for your purpose. But, I could be wrong.....

I am using the MAX for it's intended use, that is a seven segment display. However, I am confused with the lack of current, especially using a 12v, 2A external voltage boost. From what I understand from the data sheets, I should be able to get an output around 500ma if needed?

Post the LED configuration you are trying to drive. I don't follow your description.

From the schematic, you appear to be using the parts correctly - UDN2981 to ouput 12V when Segment lines are High, and one Digit line low at time.

This may be a "gotcha" with the UDN2981:
"NOTES: Turn-off delay is influenced by load conditions. Systems applications well below the specified output loading may require
timing considerations for some designs, i.e., multiplexed displays or when used in combination with sink drivers in a totem
pole configuration."

The MAX719 is multiplexing at 800 Hz. (an update every 1.25mS)
ULN2803 has 130nS turn off time.