Without seeing it in action it's hard to guess but maybe check the suspension system.

This topload washer has suspension rods with springs, when they wear out they can vibrate more.

If the noise is a jet-engine whine that isn't related to the tub oscillating to repeatedly impact the machine's outer cabinet (like an off-balance load), then the problem probably is bad bearings.

I'm having the same problem with my Whirlpool top loader, made worse by the fact that creaking noises starting emanating from it over the weekend. I have a service call scheduled for this week.

What whirlpool model do you have?

Well cr*p it's the gears. Expensive repair -- a little over $500.

That happened to me too with a 2 year old Samsung in a house I'd just moved into so I had to buy a new washing machine. All of a sudden the spin cycle sounded like a jet engine. The bearings were shot. I wanted matching and the Samsung was that titanium color - thought I'd need a new pair. Voila - they still had the same model available and I got it on sale for $700. I blasted Samsung as poor quality but in hindsight I think I may have caused the problem by attempting to wash some thick, cotton bathroom rugs in the machine. I have a much older Samsung pair at another house and no such problem.

"Bearings are part/parcel of the transmission (gear box) assembly, which may be the (repair service's) reference to "gears.""

I'm not a mechanical person so IDK, that's what the guy told me. But, it's a $500 repair regardless (parts + labor). It's probably the labor that's most of the expense (usually is...), but DH is not capable of fixing things like this so there you have it.

I'm going to bite the bullet and get a Miele set. I was going to wait until I remodel the laundry room, but I don't want to pay $500 for a repair or a new cheapie machine only to replace in another year or two, that seems not a wise.