If this is a new build go back to the builder about noise as far as color you made that decision so really can’t help there

That popping and crackling is often from the glues used. It is a good indication that "something" went wrong with install and now has to be inspected.

Are they engineered? If so, one of the few ways to make them "lighter" is to change to another product (get a new colour). If they are site finished solid hardwood (or even site finished engineered hardwood) they can be sanded and refinished to get the colour you are looking for. It won't fix the popping/crackling.

Sometimes when solid flooring is installed it can make some noise due to minor temp/humidity fluctuations within individual boards. This is normal and can sometimes take up to 4 full seasons to settle. As for popping and tacking your gonna have to be a bit more descriptive. Are the floors solid wood? What species are they? Is it factory finished?