Wet filament can give popping sounds while extruding, and indirectly cause stringing because of the moisture evaporating in the extruder. This causes filament to ooze out because of the high pressure. But since its a week old it's most likely fine.

Step 1: make sure you have dry filament.
Step 2: follow this guide: https://ellis3dp.com/Print-Tuning-Guide/

8 mm retraction sounds like waaaay too much, a direct drive printer should print fine with under 1 mm retraction.

I was in the same position, doubting between a mk4 and a p1s. Decided to build a Voron instead, no regrets.

How is that even possible? I pay €27 for unlimited calls and texts, plus 10 GB of data every day. In The Netherlands. You guys are getting scammed I feel.