2002 Volkswagen Jetta wierd sound

I have a 2002 VW jetta 2.0L 5 speed manual. The car runs fine and shifts ok. The problem I am having is when the engine is turning at about 2600 rpm to about 2900 rpm. At that point it makes like a whirling noise and could almost be described as a grinding noise but I am unsure what would do this. It doesn't affect driving( unless you count shifting early or late to avoid sound)It also only makes the sound at that point and unless shifting, when I am not giving it gas. Say I'm at a stop, then we are in first gear, clutch in ( shift at 2600 to 2900 rmp ) sound is made, shift to second. It will make the noise regardless of gear or neutral. I thought it was something loose like a heat shield but iv checked for anything that could make the sound and I need help on the situation.