With the multiplayer demo for Mass Effect 3 rapidly approaching its release, BioWare wanted to make sure everyone would be able to try it. They contacted Microsoft and this is what they heard about whether or not players would need to be Xbox Live Gold members in order to play.
This, in a nutshell, means that all users of Xbox Live, both Gold and Silver, will be able to play the Mass Effect 3 demo with your buddies. That's quite nice of you Microsoft.
"In celebration of ME3, Xbox is pleased to provide fans access to ME3 demo multiplayer for the time leading to launch. Xbox LIVE Gold gives you exclusive benefits including multiplayer gaming, member-only deals & previews, and access to entertainment with Netflix, ESPN, Hulu Plus and more."
This, in a nutshell, means that all users of Xbox Live, both Gold and Silver, will be able to play the Mass Effect 3 demo with your buddies. That's quite nice of you Microsoft.