Need opinions on engine noise
 

1996 3.6 varioram 29k miles, 6psi turbo kit.

I have what sounds like rod rap when hot between just off idle and 2,200 rpm. Can't really hear it on the outside of the car only inside. I have those nice electronic ears and still can't isolate it.

Piston slap??? If that were the noise I would expect it to be louder cold not warm.

Rod rap??? Had several porsche mechanics listen and none feel its that. I also ran it hard on the track one day and was told if it was rod rap the noise would have gotten worse fast.

Bent rod??? No idea what noise this would make.

Valve train??? I converted the rocker from hydraulic to mechanical just to eliminate that area.

Power steering pump??? This area was pretty noisy with the ears on.

One mechanic say just drive it cause its not that bad. Another is convinced its piston slap. My concern is without knowing the cause it could go boom. If I knew it was piston slap I would be ok

I am going to do a leakdown and compression check. I am also going to send an oil sample to blackstone to see if any metals show up in the oil.

Any thoughts and opinions welcome.