So after you give out round 1 to beta testers are you going to release early to others who donate after?
I don't think its too crazy to ask for some results before we donate. I bet there are lots of people on the fence with donations ready once some proof of work and or results can be seen.
I wouldn't do it. Some folks will donate to get early beta and then just share with public. And then the public will just tear programmers apart saying it's a p.o.s. Keep it within the "inner" circle until it's actually ready for public.