Yes the Beta 2 keys work for RC-1. The only download you can get from microsoft is the RC-1 now. And if you follow the instructions you don't have to be a "special" person...it's a work around to get a key now if you don't want to wait for Microsoft to start handing them out again.
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Thank you for your interest in Microsoft Windows Vista RC1. This email contains information on how to access the download and the Product Key (below) you will need to install Windows Vista. You may install RC1 on up to 10 PCs using the same Product Key.
Please use the appropriate link below to access the download site for the language and edition you want:
English: http://download.windowsvista.com/preview/rc1/en/download.htm
German: http://download.windowsvista.com/preview/rc1/de/download.htm
Japanese: http://download.windowsvista.com/preview/rc1/jp/download.htm
Due to the size of the download we recommend you use the Download Manager provided as it will allow you to resume the download if your Internet connection is interrupted during the process.
For additional download and DVD-burning instructions, please refer to: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=67708
To help answer questions you may have related to installation and use, we have created newsgroups for Windows Vista RC1. To join or read postings in these newsgroups please visit http://windowshelp.microsoft.com.
For the latest information on Windows Vista, please visit http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID=65938.
Thank You,
Microsoft
Product Key:
*****-*****-*****-*****
That is the email you will receive.