GE top loading washer sounds like a jet engine taking off during the spin cycle. Is this indicative of a bad bearing?
I would think so. Operate it with the front panel off and see if you can locate the exact source of the sound, and check to make sure nothing is caught between the tub and basket.
When you take the front off watch it during wash and see if it leaks water at the tub where the transmission and tub meet. If so the tub seal is leaking which almost always causes the washer to become noisy during spin. If this is the case you will have to replace the transmission. This page will help with that should you need it http://www.appliance-repair-it.com/GE-washer-disassembly.html
If it is not leaking then it could still be the transmission. It is just that if it is then you know that the transmission is the problem.