ENGINE-ON SPLITTING NOISE : HELP

[itu-baba]

My 70,000 miles plus X5 4.4 has just developed a noise when the engine is on. The sound is a splitting noise which changes with the revs increased. Checked the fan and belts but they both seem ok. Noise seems to come from somewhere near the automatic gear box.

Vehicle still drives great but the noise is teribble. The sound is worst when the engine just starts.

[01 BMW_X5]

Can you record the splitting noise and post on YouTube? LOL
May be flywheel ring gear, starter.