An oil change can do wonders for the noise.
Be aware that they do last a long time, even when they're noisy, and as stated you can still run the engine with a noisy variator.
If you go to a "specialist" make sure they replace ALL the necessary pulleys, tensioners and belts (i.e. do the balance belt at the same time)
The price quoted by the specialist sounds a bit low to me - I bought all the parts required to service my Spider, and it cost more than that!
This must just be for the Variator itself - get the belts done at the same time.
Of course if it is for a full service, I'll be going there next time!
