16 or 24 bit settings will not affect a condensor mics input to a daw system! What audio card are you using? What preamp providing phantom power are you using? Are you using any digital inputs? Making sure everything is clocked correctly? DO you have another source to input the C1000 inot to see if its the mic or not?
Opus

thanks for the reply. i'm using digital performer with an 828 interface. when tracking drums, i use the two above condensors as overheads and put them directly into the two xlr's included on the 828 as well as its phantom power. the other six mics i put through a mixers with xlrs and pres then line out from the mixer into my 828 line ins. it works quite well.

now, the only time i get my unwanted momentary staticy crunchy sound is micing a guitar amp with the c1000. i have to use the 828 phantom power as my mixer does not give phantom power. my input levels are definitely within the appropriate level envelope. the obvious answer here is to just stick with the trusty 'ol 57s, they never make the unwanted sound even through the 828, but i would like to see if i can get a warmer or clearer sound with the c1000s. i suppose more deductive experimentation is in order.

Well..to be honest the 828's dynamic headroom is not that good to begin with. So it might be a factor there...I would also tend to say that you should get an external phantom power supplier for the C1000's. Do a test...bring the C1000's to someone that does have a mixer with phantom power and see if the crackling still occurs..if it does you know it's the mics. Only way to tell if it's the 828 or the mics at this point
Opus

y'know i've never heard that criticism of the 828 before, something i'll definitely have to keep my eye on as i go along.

different phantom power may be the answer. the c1000 takes a 9v battery, i just thought the phantom would be better but i'll give a 9v a try and see if that clears it up. thanks again.

I think the problem is that condenser mics aren't made to be used with high sound pressure sources, like a guitar amp or a bass drum, for example. Actually, I think, but I'm not sure about it, that doing that could damage your condenser mic, so be careful with that.

Umm...thats not entirely true...it depends on the condensor mic..look at Earthworks...you can put that thing anywhere you so desire to!! Also..most condensor mics are great for Hi-Hats..guitar cabs and bottom snare mic techniques...if it's a Neumann..thats a different story..any Seinheiser 441's and Shure AXS mics are great for that stuff tho...especially the AKG C1000..use those for Hi-hats and overheads plenty o times!!
Opus