Noise in front end

Does the noise come from the front end or the middle of the car? Taking the driveshaft out tells you the problem is either in the transfer case or front axle. I would start checking things like U-joints, pinions bearings, CV shafts. My money is on the pinion bearing. Grab the front pinion gear flange (where the driveshaft connects to the front axle). See if there is any play in it. Move it up and down, side to side. If you can move it, its bad. Jack up the front wheels and try to turn the pinion by hand, very slowly. If its not completely smooth, theres a problem.