'98 CR-V Starting Problem

Turning the ignition key to the 'Start' position produces a 'machine gun' sound from the solenoid.... the dashboard lights are all present. The battery reads 12.46v and the voltage to the solenoid is about 9v - is this perhaps the problem? I expected 12 volts. Thinking that it might be an ignition switch fault, I disconnected the live wire to the solenoid and replaced it with one directly from the battery +ve supply, all to no avail. Am I right in thinking 'Starter Motor'? Any help or suggestions appreciated.