So your old VMK25s have served you faithfully, but your eyes have started wandering towards the newer models. Totally understandable. It's a bit like an old Corolla – runs just fine, but the neighbour's shiny new ride in the driveway is annoyingly tempting.
Valco doesn't have an official trade-in programme where you'd drop off the old ones at the counter and walk out with a new pair. But we're a 14-person company, not a soulless corporation, so there's always room to talk.
How does the trade-in actually work?
We don't have a straight-up "hand over the old ones, get new ones" vending machine. Instead, it goes like this:
- Contact customer support at info@valco.fi
- Tell us which model you have and what condition it's in
- Tell us which model you'd like instead
- We'll see if we can put together a sensible deal
On a case-by-case basis, we've been able to offer some kind of credit for old devices when purchasing new ones. There's no fixed price list for this, because every situation is different. A pair of headphones that's been run into the ground and a nearly mint pair are just two very different things.
VMK25 vs. VMK25.2 – is the upgrade worth it?
On the outside, the VMK25 and VMK25.2 look the same. Under the hood, though, there are differences:
- Bluetooth 5.4 (old one had 5.1) – more stable connection
- Battery life: 55 hours with ANC on (old one did 50h) and talk time nearly doubled to 95 hours
- Frequency response is even flatter – Jasse has been fine-tuning the sound
- Wireless boom microphone available as an accessory – handy for remote meetings
- 3D-printable side panels – if you want to customise the look
- New reset function: Vol+ and Vol- simultaneously for 3 seconds, no more digging around for an AUX cable
If your old VMK25s work flawlessly and nothing really bothers you, there's no pressure to upgrade. But if the battery life has started to fade or you need a better microphone, the upgrade is well justified.
What if the old ones are completely trashed?
Even if your headphones look like the dog's been using them as a chew toy, ask anyway. Worst case, we say no. Best case, we figure something out. Attach a photo of the headphones in your email so we can see what we're working with.
Also remember that VMK25 parts – cushions, panels, cables – are largely compatible with the VMK25.2. If the only issue is worn-out cushions, new cushions cost a fraction of a new pair of headphones.
If all else fails
Drop us a message at info@valco.fi. Include your order number (if you can find it), the condition of the headphones, and what you had in mind. We'll get back to you and see what kind of deal we can work out.
Every trade-in funds another tiny slice of our Death Star. Your contribution to galactic peace is appreciated.
