LS_VTEC
you get the BRAKE
Dude, it is the most common problem with hondas that there is and i guarantee it is your problem. It is the timing belt tensioner. When they start to go bad they tick, replace it and i will bet 500$ it will go away. I had the same problem with my b16, tried everything till i realized what it was.
You know what, I think your right here... I had the stethoscope on with the pointer all across the board over the valve cover and it all sounded the same, but a tad bit louder near cylinder #1. And I SWORE it was the timing belt, but it felt fine. The sound seemed to be coming from the cam gears...monday ill get it up in the air and check the tensioner.