Strange noise to identify

For the last few weeks my Beetle has developed a really awful noise. It's most obvious at start-up, but I've noticed it when ever there is more load on the vehicle such as starting off on a hill when the clutch is let out or even moving in reverse when the clutch is let out.
The only way to describe this noise is to listen to it. I recorded an example.
I'm not exactly sure how to attach an audio file to this post so i'm going to utilize Dropbox. Not always the best for a public forum, but here's the link:

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/33435677/Car noise.m4a

If there is a preferred method to attach this file, please let me know
Thanks!!

Sounds like the starter gear hanging up. A common issue with these cars.
You drive with it until you can no longer stand it.
Or you can remove , clean and lube the starter to remedy.
Or replace it.

+2 I think that's it.

That is what I was thinking, but I hear it at times when I'm stopped on a hill and I let the clutch out. It's very bizarre - does this make any sense?

I have only heard it on startup.