I have being testing Windows 7 since the beta, and it is rock stable. No problems at all. I would be surprised to see many problems, I don't think Vista Ultimate at its high price is a good option just for an operating system you are going to use for 5 months? 

A free upgrade to Windows 7 from Vista is only available to oem's. 

As you are suggesting what is good for a NEW pc build, I thought at least people should know Windows 7 is just around the corner. 

And anyone can download Windows 7 RC which is rock solid and doesnt expire to next year, meaning they have a free operating system 32bit or 64bit which they can use for 5 months until it is released. Then you have saved people both time and money.

Jon

DA Portfolio - http://jonj1611.daportfolio.com/