Subaru Repair: 1996 Legacy low whining noise above 30 MPH, wheel bearing, initial signs

Question
I am getting a low whining noise above about 30 mph.  Noise does not start
until vehicle is warmed up -- like 10 minutes.  noise does not increase with
vehicle speed.--not a rough noise--fairly smooth no change from throttle
pressure.  I think I also hear a change in pitch on left turns--like a low "wurr--
Wurr-  wurr'.  First guess is wheel bearing.  what about initial signs of a "pulley"
going bad?

Answer
It sounds more like a wheel bearing to me, but the whirring should increase with vehicle speed. As for a pulley, you would notice a increase in noise with an increase in throttle. I would have both your front left and front right bearing inspected for play.