@Bsteckler: It is VERY possible to "beta test" Windows 7 without being on the official registry. Due to forum rules, I urge people to not discuss the method here. If there is true interest in learning this, PM me and I'll tell you a great method to get sued.

With early software, it's best to not play games with piracy.

That being said, I've got a friend on the beta list and I get to try Windows 7 next week! Woohoo!