Car: 01 Prelude SH

It makes this distinct whining/rubbing noise that is coming from around the timing belt at low rpm's, just above idle and below 1500. At first I thought it was a serpentine belt, but popped the hood and listened closely while manipulating the throttle. Sound goes away after 1500rpms. It's starting to get annoying.. Ideas? I was thinking Tensioner but never heard one go bad.. Worst case bad water pump, or oil pump bearings?!

Haven't had the opportunity to start pulling v-cover or side covers yet.

 

After doing some reading I see the Auto tensioner turns out to be a piece.

What would be the easiest way to determine if my tensioner has indeed gone bad? Loose at low rpm? More than a 1/4 turn length ways? Assuming the lower cover has to come off to access the tensioner? Is the middle cover easier to remove than starting at the valve cover to access the belt to see if it needs service?

 

When was your last complete timing belt service? If your due, just get everything replaced.