Gearbox noise on idle

[TRD_ZERO]

I noticed the other day I was getting a rattling/tapping noise from the gearbox on idle. Gearbox is a e58 and the noise seems to be coming from the bump/half cylinder shape on the top of the gear box kind of where the gear selector cable connects. Can't really hear this noise inside the car or while driving. I don't have any problems selecting gears. The problem possibly goes away when the clutch is disengaged not too sure though a friend seems it does. Could it be a low oil level causing the noise? How do I check the level of oil in the gearbox?
I might just be paranoide.
Any input appreciated thanks.

[MAC_HATER]

easiest thing will be to check the oil for sure

jack the car up or get it on a hoist or over a pit, and there should be a drain\sight plug on the side of the gearbox, and remove that, if oil comes out, or is level with the bottom of the plug hole, then it is full, if it isint (or hopefully not dry) it will need topped up or the oil completely changed, whatever you prefer

someone correct me if im wrong though please

[RS13]

FWIW, gearboxes sound pretty horrendous when you're listening close up. Bearings may be worn, but checking the condition of the oil will tell you for sure.

[Crucible]

If it goes away with foot on the clutch in neutral most probably input shaft bearings, they tend to give more of a whine than rattling noise though. As above drain and check oil for metallic material etc..

[TRD_ZERO]

The gearbox has only done a few hundred kms since I've had it so it shouldn't be the thrust bearing. It's definatly not a whining noise I've heard poked thrust bearings before and it isn't this. I'll check the oil level and go from there on the weekend.

[Crucible]

If it goes AWAY with foot on the clutch.

The input shaft is spinning with foot off the clutch, in neutral plus all gears, Im not talking about the release bearing. Box is noisy, there is only one fix.