Needs to be timed or improperly gapped plugs?
 

Does this sound like the engine needs to be timed or does it sound like improperly gapped plugs? I'm going with timing though.

http://yourlisten.com/channel/content/16979081/Engine_Sound

Horrible rod knock or other serious mechanical failure. I mean it's poor quality sound and all but it sounds like something banging around.

Is the car running? It sounds like it is not starting. Is that correct?

What year, make , model , engine , miles. . . If you want help you need to provide details.

I didn't listen to the audio but, with a modern ignition system plug gap is nearly irelevent and in any case won't make noise.

Modern cars have non adjustable ignition timing.

you can buy low mileage engine for $999 shipping included

Sounds like a rod bearing went out as it is a harder knock in one are of the crank rotation. IF it is a rod it would be loudest where it goes from pulling down to pushing up in about a 10 degree arc.
Have you pulled the pan off yet?

Obviously this depends on what engine it is as a W126 V8 engine has to come out to look at any rods other than #1, #2, & #5 as the upper pan that conceals the others will not come off with the engine installed in the car.
jimm1009

Its a M104 engine per the name on the recording. That sounds quite bad....I bet the engine is done for....